Seniors in their sixties and beyond have a greater chance of reentering the hospital within 30 days of discharge compared to all other age groups. However, over the past two decades, doctors, nurses, and other officials in the medical field have been creating and encouraging seniors’ families to take part in programs that prevent readmission. Some health issues are more likely than others to land an elderly loved one back in the hospital. Here are some of the top diagnoses that cause readmissions and what you can do to prevent readmission for your loved one.
Heart Attack
Heart attacks are one of the most serious health issues, so it makes sense that cardiovascular conditions often land seniors back in the hospital. If your loved one has had a heart attack, he or she is more likely to face readmission in the near future. One of the best ways to prevent readmission is to follow the doctor’s orders upon discharge. If your loved one didn’t see a cardiologist regularly before, it’s time to start. It may also be time to adopt a new healthier lifestyle to prevent future heart attacks.
Heart Failure
The best way to help your loved one stay out of the hospital with a heart failure diagnosis is to follow up with a cardiologist as soon as possible after discharge. The doctor will provide medications, advice for lifestyle changes that may be necessary, and tips for handling the new diagnosis.
Many aging adults need assistance when they return home after being hospitalized. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Auburn, AL, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
COPD
After cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems are the second leading cause of hospital readmissions for seniors and people of all ages. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the top causes that fall under this category. One of the best ways to prevent readmission caused by complications from the disease is to get to the root of what’s causing a flare-up. If your loved one is a smoker, it may be time to quit. The doctor can also give you a list of signs and symptoms to look for before the disease escalates into a situation that may land your loved one in the emergency room.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia also falls under the category of respiratory issues that may send your loved one back to the hospital within a few weeks of discharge. If your loved one is hospitalized with pneumonia, make sure he or she receives a full and complete diagnosis and treatment before going home. Once home, follow all discharge orders closely, and stay engaged until your loved one recovers fully, which may involve spending more time together, helping with daily tasks, and monitoring symptoms and vital signs.
A professional caregiver can closely monitor your loved one for post-hospitalization complications. When searching for reliable homecare agencies, families want to know their senior loved ones will be well taken care of. At Home Care Assistance, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more.
Hip & Knee Replacements
There are numerous reasons hip and knee replacements result in readmissions, including blood clots, infections, dislocations, pain, and general surgical complications. Communication with your loved one’s surgeon and nurses is key to making a smooth transition from the hospital to home and preventing readmission, and this may also include having your parent spend time in rehabilitation or welcoming a home caregiver into your loved one’s home.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support for a senior who’s recovering after being hospitalized. Auburn elder care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. To hire a dedicated caregiver, call Home Care Assistance at (334) 744-7100 today.