The recovery period after a long illness, injury, or surgery can be stressful and frustrating. When preparing your home for the return of a loved one after such a stay, here are some things to consider:
Keep the mind busy. While our bodies may not be ready to jump up and get around just yet after a hospital stay, oftentimes our minds will still need stimulation, especially as healing progresses. Ensure that you have stimulating activities on hand for the recovery period, including puzzles, games, music, books, magazines and arts and crafts to help pass the time. These activities will not only prevent boredom, but may also stave off depression.
Get help. Caring for a loved one in recovery by yourself can be very difficult, especially if they need specialized medical care or medication management and you already have a full time or part time job that takes you out of the house. Home healthcare organizations such as Graceworks at Home provide skilled nursing and therapy services in the home, potentially saving you and your loved one on frequent follow-up trips to health clinics or hospitals for routine aftercare. While hospitals may offer home care and rehabilitation services from private partners, it’s important to explore your choices. Check out these tips on how to find the right home healthcare provider. You have options!
Comfortable seating. Remember that your loved one will be spending a lot of time seated or lying down partially propped up on pillows. Arrange a good, comfortable seating area with a stimulating view to help them pass the time in comfort. As they may not be able to get up on their own to retrieve what they need, ensure they have access to common items in reach. Place supplies such as tissues, lip balm, bottled water, remote controls, hand wipes, and snacks in a tub or on a convenient side table near the seating area.
Lighting and clutter. If your loved one is older, proper lighting will be especially important in the areas where they spend most of their days. If they are unable to see clearly, it can negatively impact their ability to engage in stimulating tasks and may also be hazardous if they are unable to see well enough to navigate obstacles. Speaking of obstacles, ensure that your house is free from clutter that could impede easy access to and from your loved one’s bedroom to common areas of the house such as the living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
Considering all of these factors when you bring your loved one home will not only make them more comfortable, but can also speed their recovery.
