For seniors, recuperating from a hospital stay can be difficult, especially in terms of regaining strength and energy. Seniors can recuperate more efficiently, though, if they follow the proper post hospital care protocols. Loved ones and post hospital care providers can help them understand—and monitor them—to make sure they’re following the plan, as well as encourage them to speak with their medical team when they have concerns.
Recognizing Obstacles
It’s likely that every situation will bring its own set of challenges. Without direction from the post hospital care team and support from loved ones, seniors might become frustrated when faced with these obstacles, which could set their healing back. Being aware of these challenges is key to staying on track. Some of the common things that might affect seniors’ recovery include the following:
- Physical Weakness: Prolonged hospital stays can cause muscles to atrophy, which leads to decreased physical health. It’s important to note that this affects people of all ages after a lengthy hospital stay. However, it can be more difficult for seniors, especially if they are already faced with limited physical health.
- Fatigue: Hospitalization, medication side effects, and irregular sleep patterns can all cause seniors to feel exhausted.
- Emotional Health: Hospital stays can also be emotionally draining for seniors, especially if they identify a new condition. This emotional drain can impact seniors’ motivation to recover and their general well-being.
Helping Seniors Regain Energy
When exploring the post hospital care plan with the medical team and seniors, loved ones should encourage seniors to ask questions along with asking a few of their own. It’s important to ensure the plan is clear and realistic.
Some of the ideas below should be included in the plan to help seniors regain their energy:
Gradual Exercise and Movement
Condition-specific exercises should be included in the post hospital care plan. These might include simple stretches, chair exercises, or quick walks with supervision. Additionally, the exercises should start with low impact for shorter times and gradually increase as seniors begin to feel better.
Balanced Nutrition
It’s important for seniors to have access to wholesome meals and snacks. Loved ones and post hospital care providers can help with this, offering support with shopping, healthy meal planning, and more.
Sufficient Hydration
Hydration is essential for optimal energy and general well-being. Seniors should be encouraged to sip water frequently throughout the day.
Rest and Sleep
To counteract fatigue, it’s important to create a comfortable sleeping environment and promote regular rest times during the day.
Social Engagement
Having social contact can improve seniors’ motivation and attitudes. Loved ones can encourage other family members to visit if possible. Additionally, post hospital care providers offer seniors the chance to be social.
After a hospital stay, seniors need assistance getting back on their feet. This requires a comprehensive strategy that takes care of their physical, dietary, emotional, and social needs. Seniors can recuperate more easily and regain their independence sooner by putting customized post hospital care strategies into practice.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Post Hospital Care in Pacific Beach, CA, please contact the caring staff at Aaron Home Care. (619) 880-5522
A Trusted Home Care Agency Serving La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Point Loma, San Diego, UTC, La Mesa, Chula Vista, Coronado, Bonita, Eastlake, and the surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.a-plusinhomecare.com/post-hospital-care-helping-seniors-regain-energy-after-a-hospital-discharge/
- https://companionsforseniors.com/2019/07/helping-senior-recover-after-hospital-stay/
- https://compassioncrest.com/tips-for-helping-seniors-recover-after-a-hospital-stay/
In 1999, Aaron was named Residential Program Manager of a group home for disabled adults in Arlington, Virgina. Here, he built a reputation for being compassionate with his clients and efficient in company operations. In the years that followed, Washington DC’s human services field went through unprecedented reform when the city was fined $11 million for the previously unchecked abuse, neglect, and exploitation of the very population it was supposed to protect. In 2005, Aaron was selected by a watchdog company to co-create and implement a monitoring system to safeguard and advocate for the system’s most vulnerable residents. This system is still in use today.
Aaron is now using his unique gifts and profound experience in the human service field to provide San Diego County Seniors with dependable, compassionate caregivers through Aaron Home Care.
He currently serves on the board of the San Diego Regional Home Care Council and is an active member of the Senior Advocate Network of San Diego.
Aaron Home Care is a member of the American Board of Home Care and is accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
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