7 Incredible Advantages of Reduced Rehospitalizations

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Advantages of Lowered Rehospitalizations in Winnipeg, MB

There’s no way to guarantee your senior loved one won’t be readmitted to the hospital after returning home. Still, there are steps that can be taken—such as being as prepared as possible to provide sufficient home care and paying attention to doctor’s instructions—that could result in fewer returns to the hospital. Let’s take a moment to explore some of the main benefits associated with lowered hospital readmissions for older adults.

1. Less Stress

A recent study referenced by Statistics Canada shows Canadian seniors generally have a good outlook on life. However, being readmitted to the hospital—whether it’s for pneumonia that develops after being discharged, an infection, or additional complications with a chronic condition—can be very stressful for seniors. By minimizing readmissions, older adults can remain focused on what makes them happy in their daily lives.
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 Winnipeg, MB, 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.

2. Fewer Routine Disruptions

A stay in the hospital often means a disruption to a senior’s regular routine, from mealtimes to bathing and other daily habits. Reducing hospital readmissions means seniors accustomed to certain schedules won’t have to experience as many interruptions in the routines they find familiar and comforting.

3. Less Exposure to Germs

Hospital-acquired infections can be especially problematic and potentially life-threatening for older adults. While hospitals generally make every effort to minimize these types of risks, there’s always the possibility of picking up germs from other individuals. An effective way to mitigate this risk is to make an effort to lower hospital readmissions as much as possible.
A professional caregiver can monitor your loved one for post-hospitalization complications, including infections. When searching for reliable Winnipeg home care service 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.

4. Better Mental Outlook

If your loved one receives sufficient in-home care following an initial hospital stay to avoid having to return to the hospital, he or she may have a better outlook when it comes to health and wellbeing. Being readmitted to the hospital sometimes makes older adults have a less optimistic view of their health and quality of life.

5. More Interactions with Friends and Relatives

The hospital that provides medical care for your loved one may not be located close to his or her home, which could make it difficult for friends and relatives to visit on a regular basis. Not being able to regularly see familiar faces could be especially troubling for seniors who have existing issues with dementia or other cognitive impairments. When seniors are able to remain at home, it’s easier for friends and family members to visit more frequently.

6. Fewer Medication Errors

It’s not unusual for seniors to have an assortment of prescription medications to take on a daily basis to manage various health-related issues. After leaving the hospital, additional medications are often prescribed. Even if the extra meds are used for only a short time, there’s always the potential to confuse the dosages. In some instances, seniors may unintentionally mix their medications or have a reaction because of drug interactions. Lowering hospital readmissions reduces this risk.

7. A Healthier Lifestyle

One of the most effective ways to minimize hospital readmissions for seniors is to encourage them to get doctor-approved forms of exercise on a regular basis and promote healthier eating habits. In addition to reducing the need to go back to the hospital, positive lifestyle adjustments of this nature can also contribute to enhancements in:
• Mobility and flexibility
• The ability to effectively manage seasonal colds and other seemingly minor illnesses that may contribute to hospital readmissions
• Certain cognitive abilities
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support for a senior who’s recovering after being hospitalized. Elderly home 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.
Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate, professional care for your loved one. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (204) 489-6000.

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