How to get home for Christmas: A senior’s guide

Christmas is the perfect opportunity to spend time with loved ones. Still, if you are in hospital, you might be concerned that getting home for Christmas will be challenging. With the help of a hospital to homecare service, it doesn’t need to be. 

The following are some steps you and your loved ones can take to ensure you get home in time for Christmas :

Hospital discharge planner 

Firstly, you will speak with the social work team in the hospital to schedule an appointment with their discharge planner. Discharge planning is essential for the team to consider what support is needed when you leave hospital. They can also refer you to any required services and then liaise with these services to manage your hospital discharge. This allows everyone, including yourself and your caregivers, to know what needs to happen. In addition to this, they can arrange any follow-up appointments with your doctor and give you access to community resources. This is the first step of your transition back home, allowing your Home care agency to continue the process. 

Arranging a hospital to homecare service 

Next, you must contact a home care agency to provide the necessary services once you leave the hospital. Right at Home offers our Hospital to Home rehabilitation service, which is the perfect solution for bespoke homecare after a stay in the hospital. Our homecare team are dedicated to helping with the transition from hospital to home, providing care that ensures a safe, comfortable, and successful transition back into your home. So you can be reassured that our highly experienced caregivers will support you. In addition, Hospital to Home services also helps with things such as medication management, wound care, nutrition assessment, and patient education. With the help of the homecare agency, you can trust that you are in good hands and your return home will be smooth and successful. They have your best interests in mind and will provide compassionate, professional care that ensures you are supported every step of the way. So, you can enjoy peace of mind with their help, knowing that your transition home is handled with expertise and care. 

Care Plan

One of our Care Managers from Right at Home will conduct two assessments before developing an individualised care plan tailored to your needs. The first assessment happens whilst you are still in the hospital and is followed up by another visit to your home once you have returned. The care plan considers any medical or personal difficulties. It creates a detailed plan that will then be implemented to the highest standards by our CareGivers, providing you with the best possible support. It covers all aspects of your life, from the physical to the emotional and social, so you can be sure you’re receiving the best care possible. Your care plan is designed for peace of mind knowing that all aspects of your health are being taken into account once you return home. This means you can enjoy the holidays knowing everything is being taken care of. 

Staying connected 

While in the hospital, you will want to keep in touch with family and friends. This can help ensure you have support during your hospital stay and when you return home. It also means that you can make them aware of your plans to be home in time for Christmas. Your loved ones can help ensure your home is ready for your return, stocking up on the necessary groceries and ensuring it is clean and prepared for your return. Returning from the hospital and being welcomed by a safe, clean, and comfortable home can be a huge relief. Your support network can also help once you return home by keeping you company and helping with grocery shopping, cleaning, and day-to-day tasks. At the same time, you will have the chance to recuperate and get back on your feet. Taking time to ensure everything is in order will provide peace of mind and allow you to rest easy, knowing that your home is ready for you. 

So, if you or a loved one is in the hospital, don’t hesitate to contact us at 01420 481716 to find out how Right at Home can help make your holidays a refreshing and restorative experience. You’ll be relaxing with your loved ones in the comfort of your own home, able to take part in the family traditions whilst your friends and family spend time with you. 

Links to related blogs:

Comparing homecare services: What to look for

How to know if a homecare agency is reputable

The many benefits of care at home for those living with dementia