Coming home from the hospital can be both a relief and a challenge. It's a step towards recovery and regaining independence, but it's understandable if you, or your loved ones, are feeling a bit overwhelmed. In this article, we will provide individuals, families and friends with some helpful tips and resources to consider before someone leaves the hospital, as well as guidance on how to access care and support. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and HiCarer is here to help you every step of the way.
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Preparing for Your Return:
Before you leave the hospital, take some time to consider a few important factors to ensure a smooth transition. This includes:
- Assessing your home environment:
Make sure your living space is safe, accessible, and comfortable for your recovery. Consider any necessary modifications or equipment you may need. This could include grab rails, shower stools, toilet frames etc. The British Red Cross has a service where you can borrow or hire some of the equipment that you might need.
- Medication management:
Coordinate with your healthcare provider to ensure a smooth transition of medications, prescriptions, and any necessary medical supplies, you will usually receive a patient discharge summary, which will include details of your stay in hospital, useful numbers and a list of medications that you've been prescribed. You can use this to share with professionals that you speak to, you can also use the medication information to update/populate the medication section on the HiCarer app.
- Informing your support network:
Reach out to your family, friends, or neighbours who can provide assistance and emotional support during your recovery. People often come forward when there has been a stay in hospital - take up the offers of support. Remember to add people to the support circle in the HiCarer app, this makes it easier to identify everyday tasks that they might be able to help with. These tasks may seem like minor things to the people in the support circle - like putting out the bins, collecting prescriptions or doing some shopping, but they make the world of difference to the person who needs the support.
- Communicating with your healthcare team:
Understand your discharge plan, ask any questions you may have, and ensure you have all the necessary information about your ongoing care.
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Accessing Care and Support:
There are various resources available to help you access the care and support you need:
- General Practitioner (GP):
Your GP will be your primary point of contact for ongoing healthcare needs. Make sure to register with a local GP if you haven't already and schedule a follow-up appointment.
- Community care services:
Explore the local community care services, such as district nursing, home care, and rehabilitation programs, that may be available to support your recovery at home.
- Local authorities:
Contact your local council to inquire about social care services and any support you may be eligible for, such as home adaptations, mobility aids, or financial assistance. It's best to look at the care needs that you/your loved one might need first, so go through the Care Needs Assessment on HiCarer and then you can download the completed Assessment to give to the Local Authority.
- Charitable organisations:
There are numerous charities in the UK that offer specialised support for various health conditions. Reach out to them for advice, resources, and emotional support.
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Emotional Well-being:
The journey of recovery can be challenging emotionally. Remember to prioritise your mental well-being by:
- Seeking emotional support: Talk to your loved ones, join support groups, or consider counselling services to help you navigate any emotional challenges you may face during recovery.
- Engaging in activities you enjoy: Find activities that bring you joy and promote relaxation. This can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
Conclusion:
As you embark on your journey of recovery at home, know that there are countless support systems available to you in the UK. By considering important factors before leaving the hospital, accessing care and support services, and prioritiszing your emotional well-being, you can make the transition smoother and more manageable. Remember, you've got a whole network of individuals rooting for your success and well-being, so make use of the support that is offered. Take it one day at a time, and don't hesitate to reach out for help when you need it. You've got this!