Elderly people are already at a higher risk for hospital readmissions due to their advanced age. However, there are other risk factors that increase the odds of having to be readmitted to the hospital. Being aware of these risk factors allows you to work with your senior loved one to prevent issues that could lead to a readmission.
1. Smoking
People who smoke tobacco products tend to experience respiratory ailments more frequently than those who don’t. If your loved one has smoked for any length of time, he or she is at a higher risk for developing pneumonia and other lung infections. You can help your loved one have enhanced lung functioning by providing the emotional support he or she needs to quit smoking.
A professional caregiver can monitor your loved one for post-hospitalization complications, including infections. When searching for reliable homecare agencies, families want to know their senior loved one 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.
2. Lacking Social Support
Seniors who lack support from friends, family, and other caregivers are more likely to go back into the hospital. This is due to several factors. For instance, seniors without proper social support may experience depression and lose their motivation to continue to heal. Your loved one also needs people to visit regularly to watch out for signs of health complications after he or she has returned home.
3. Misusing Drugs or Alcohol
Many seniors experience daily pain due to various health conditions, which can sometimes cause them to misuse drugs or alcohol in an attempt to feel better. For example, your loved one may take extra pain pills if he or she feels like the prescribed dosage of medication isn’t working. Misusing drugs or alcohol delays healing, and this behavior can also cause your loved one to neglect his or her health or experience an accident at home.
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 Tucson, AZ, 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.
4. Experiencing Financial Difficulties
Older adults who live on fixed budgets may skimp on things they need for a healthy recovery. For instance, your loved one may choose to skip meals if he or she doesn’t have enough money for food and medicine. Check on your loved one’s living situation to make sure his or her needs are being met at home. Often, seniors can get help with medications and household supplies through their health insurance plans and community organizations.
5. Having Another Serious Health Condition
Many older adults have chronic health conditions that affect the ability to heal. Seniors with diabetes need to keep their blood sugar controlled to prevent issues such as infections that don’t heal properly. Older adults with COPD or heart disease may also need assistance with remembering to take their medication so they don’t develop complications.
6. Being a Fall Risk
Your loved one may also be at risk for falling at home. Check medication side effects to see if dizziness is listed among them. You may also need to arrange for a home caregiver to help your loved one with daily tasks that involve an increased risk of falling, such as getting in and out of the bathtub.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support for a senior who’s recovering after being hospitalized. Tucson senior 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. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Home Care Assistance team at (520) 276-6555 today.