When you leave the hospital, you may need to spend some time in a rehabilitation facility, nursing home, or other institution. Or you may be able to stay home and receive healthcare services there. Be sure that you and your caregiver understand the plan for your care before you are discharged from the hospital.
Here’s a brief explanation of the various services that you may use during your recovery.
Home Healthcare
Part-time healthcare provided by medical professionals in your home that allows you to maintain or restore your health. It includes a wide range of skilled and non-skilled services, including part-time nursing care, various therapies (physical, speech, etc.) and assistance with daily activities and homemaker services, such as cleaning and cooking.
Assisted Living
An apartment in a long-term care facility for elderly or disabled people who can no longer live on their own but who don’t need a high level of care. Assisted-living facilities provide assistance with medications, meals in a cafeteria or restaurant-like setting, and housekeeping services. Nursing staff is on site. Most facilities have social activities and provide transportation to medical appointments, shopping, etc.
Nursing Home
A residential facility for people with chronic illness or disability, particularly those who need assistance for most or all of their daily living activities like bathing, dressing and toileting. Nursing homes provide 24-hour skilled care and are also called skilled nursing facilities or long-term care facilities. Many nursing homes also provide short-term rehabilitative stays for patients who are recovering from an injury or illness. Some facilities also have a separate secure unit for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss.
Hospice
A licensed or certified program that provides care for people who are terminally ill and for their families. Hospice care can be provided at home, in a hospice or other facility, or in a hospital. Also referred to as “palliative” care, hospice care emphasizes the management of pain and discomfort and addresses the physical, spiritual, emotional, psychological, financial and legal needs of the patient and his or her family.
Count on Community Services
If you remain in your home, many community services can help with your personal care and activities. Some volunteer groups help with things like shopping or transportation at a nominal cost or the group may ask for a voluntary donation. Some services may be available at varied costs depending on where you live and the services you need.