Preventing Hospitalisation
It’s important to look after your loved one’s health as they get older, and taking preventative measures can help keep them out of hospital. Some of the hospitalisation of older people could be avoided if the necessary preventive measures are followed.
Preventive measures are better than treatment options.
- Neglecting to see a doctor or putting off medical check-ups.
- Signs of lethargy or despair are accompanied by social isolation.
- Constant sleeping.
- Problematic cooking, eating and drinking habits.
- Maintaining a clean and hygienic home.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Aggravation of diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Neglect of global health and well-being
- Declining participation in hobbies and interests
- Confusion, which may be the result of an underlying condition such as dementia
By eating a nutritious, balanced diet, being cognitively and physically active, sleeping well and interacting with others, older people take the necessary steps to avoid unnecessary hospitalisation.
How home care can avoid or postpone hospitalisation
It is not always easy for family members to monitor the health of their ageing parents. You may not live nearby or be able to attend all of your parent’s doctor’s appointments or check that they are eating properly. This is where Sorted Healthcare can help.
We offer a variety of flexible home care services, whether your parent needs companionship, meal preparation, housekeeping or transportation to medical appointments. Your local Sorted Healthcare office will assess the needs of your loved one and family to develop a care plan for you that is tailored to the individual.
We can provide you and your parent with the support you need to significantly reduce the risk of accidents by assisting your parent with everyday tasks that have become more difficult as they age. This extra help can also help them live independently at home. See our e-brochure for more information on avoiding hospitalisation.
Returning home after a hospital stay
Sometimes a hospital stay is unavoidable. Patients receiving full-time hospital care are continuously monitored and cared for as they are brought back to full health. When it is time for your loved one to return home, they may need more care and support to cope.
If this is the case, Sorted Healthcare can help both you and your loved one with the transition from hospital to home. This includes practical arrangements such as assisting with travel and ensuring safety in the home, collecting prescriptions, changing bed linen and stocking the fridge with essentials, as well as arranging follow-up appointments with the doctor.