When a loved one is ready to be discharged after a stay in a hospital or a rehab facility, it’s a reason to celebrate…it’s good news…generally. But the good news of recovery and progress also comes with other hurdles that must be tackled, the reality of the care needed sets in and worry sets in. For most families, discharge day comes with something that few talk about: a daunting emotional toll.
Underneath the smiles and relief lies a mix of fear, uncertainty, and often exhaustion. Families are faced with decisions that affect not only the health of their loved one but also that of their whole family.
At Senior Industry Services, we understand that what happens after discharge is just as important as what happens leading up to it in the hospital, and that families need more than a care plan. Having a general idea of what to do afterward can help ease the feelings of uncertainty, but that’s only one portion of the care needed. In addition to guidance, the families of seniors being discharged need kindness, reassurance, and the right support system in place.
The Hidden Strain Families Experience During Discharge
Discharge planners witness the stress of discharge on families on a daily basis. Families are presented with a tidal wave of instructions, medications, and follow-up appointments within a few hours to organize.
The discharge of a loved one can be emotionally overwhelming for families because:
- They are afraid of doing the wrong thing. With only a few hours warning, the safety net of 24/7 professional care vanishes.
- They fear not being “enough” as it can be challenging to juggle work, parenting, and caregiving duties as an adult child caring for a senior.
- They don’t know whom to trust. The elder care environment is bewildering, with variations in levels of care and quality.
- They’re tired. Illness, hospitalization, and uncertainty take their toll on all concerned.
Without effective guidance and good post-discharge care, these sentiments can lead to burnout, dysfunctional family relationships, and even readmission.
The Challenge of the Discharge Planner
Discharge planners also carry emotional burdens as they plan a smooth, safe transition with limited resources and time. They see the fear in families’ eyes and know that the right post-acute care partner will remove it.
Senior Industry Services stands ready to do just that.
We help discharge planners:
- Ease transitions with trusted, vetted senior care professionals to step in when families need them most.
- Ensure continuity of care so nothing is lost in transition from hospital, rehab, and home.
- Support families emotionally by offering empathetic communication and clear next steps.
- Avoid readmissions by matching each patient with the proper care services for his/her needs and comfort level.
When families feel cared for, everybody benefits: the hospital, the patient, and the discharge team.
Turning a Moment of Stress Into a Moment of Trust
The discharge from hospital to home needn’t leave families on their own. At Senior Industry Services, we believe that this emotional turning point can become a moment of care and connection.
By partnering with Senior Industry Services, you’re able to offer support by coming alongside the families of seniors and reassuring them that they are not alone. Being able to tell them you’ve already found someone qualified to help aid in their specific needs helps to replace fear with relief.
Let’s Make Every Discharge a Success Story
The unwritten emotional weight on families at discharge is a reality, but it doesn’t need to be the defining moment. Empathetic coordination and respected senior care experts can help ensure that families feel supported every step of the journey.
Here at Senior Industry Services, we aim to make Central Texas the best place for seniors to age. We are here to help lighten the emotional load — for discharge planners and families alike. Because when you care for caregivers…you ensure everybody is well cared for.
Written for Senior Industry Services by Lauren Hope Bartling
References:
How hospital discharges disappoint family caregivers | next avenue. (n.d.-a). https://www.nextavenue.org/hospital-discharges-family-caregivers/
The emotional toll of family caregiving—and when it’s time to ask for help | luxe homecare. (n.d.-b). https://luxehomecare.com/the-emotional-toll-of-family-caregiving-and-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help/