After someone you love has had surgery or is recovering from a serious injury, they will often be admitted into a short-term rehabilitation center. The center is equipped so that people will recover quicker, with 24/7 staff who provide support and whatever else is needed to ensure recovery. However, there comes a time when a person needs to leave the rehab facility. The best way to keep physical recovery on track is to have the patient continue their therapy as an outpatient, which includes being expected to do physical therapy at home, too.
If you have a loved one whose short-term rehab is about to end, it is time to start planning for the next steps to ensure that they make a smooth transition. Please keep in mind that if you plan on being the primary caregiver, it is essential to be aware of the fact that home help after surgery isn’t easy. As a caregiver, you’ll be under a lot of stress. That’s why planning is important.
Start Your Planning Early On
One of the things that most people overlook is the fact that home care after surgery will require making a couple of changes inside the home. You will need to modify some rooms and common areas for better accessibility, and you may need assistance from an outsider. Ideally, you will want to work with the rehab staff, request that they visit your home so they can suggest modifications, and take their recommendations regarding hiring a home care professional.
A therapist will recommend several modifications based on their assessment of what the patient needs when they get home. Make a list of all the likely difficult situations and then discuss solutions with the expert therapist. You will also want all the modifications to be completed a day or two before the person moves back so that if they are any kinks, they can be ironed out.
Take Advantage of Your Resources
While there are many things you need to consider when transitioning a loved one back home from a short-term rehab facility, it is important to utilize all resources at your disposal. Most facilities will guide you on proper post-surgical home care for your loved one. They will tell you what types of medical equipment is needed or if you need adaptive equipment.
The rehab and aftercare professionals will also put you in touch with all the resources that are in your community. Many local communities have various services; for instance, they can put you in contact with services that deliver meals. You can also seek counseling and housekeeping services from local community members.
Hire a Professional Caregiver
It might be your first time providing post-surgical home care, and so it is OK to feel overwhelmed. Many people need help when dealing with a person who can’t get out of bed or needs assistance every step of the way. Fortunately, many professional home care professionals can be hired for assistance. Not only can they assist you but also make it easier to take care of the person in question. As professionals, they will also understand most things without you having to work too hard explaining it to them.
Have you ever hired a professional caregiver? What questions do you have about hiring a homecare professional?
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