Seniors in Transition--Hospital to Rehab Center

Inpatient rehabilitation is designed to speed up post-hospital recovery. For discharged hospital patients who are able to tolerate early intensive physical rehabilitation, inpatient rehab can result in faster attainment of short-term functional milestones in fewer days and with less total cost. Orthopedic or post-stroke patients are examples of the many patients who can benefit from inpatient rehabilitation.
How to Prepare
Preparation for a successful inpatient rehabilitation experience begins while you or your loved one is still in the hospital. Jot down the medications you are taking and any special needs you have while in the hospital, so that when you transfer, if those things are not readily provided, you can ask for them. Ask what type of exercises you will be given while in rehab so you can understand in advance what your care plans will likely be. If you are well-informed ahead of time, you can be sure your routine matches expectations and those of your physician as soon as possible after relocation. Just as in the hospital, ask when you can expect to see your physician and how many times per day you will receive specialized care. Finally, ask how you will be able to measure your progress and know when it's safe to finally return home.
Choosing a Rehab Center
Check out the rehabilitation facility options you have available. Insurance and access by your physician dictates which ones you can choose. Here are some questions to ask: What types of professional services will you or your loved one need? What types of therapies will be needed, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech? Does the facility provide these services? What percentage of patients is discharged to home from the facility? If you or your loved one is not discharged to home, what are other options? Since quality of care is hard for a non-healthcare professional to evaluate, ask if the facility is accredited by a major accrediting body such as the Joint Commission (formerly the JCAHO) or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. These agencies check for quality standards on a routine basis.
Planning for Discharge to Home
Believe it or not, admission is when you should begin to ask about discharge from rehab to home. It is likely you will need help of some kind when leaving. Advance preparation for the next steps can provide needed peace of mind for all involved. You or your loved one may be:
a. Referred to a home health agency;
b. Provided a list of social services in the area for access to community services;
c. Told home safety modifications will be necessary;
d. Given activity restrictions that will include the ability to drive.
If these or other recommendations will need your attention in order to be ready for discharge, the longer you have to get them done, the better. Ask your physician or the nursing staff to assist you with understanding what to expect.