Coming home after a hospital stay is a relief, but the first few weeks can be the hardest. Your loved one may be tired, weaker than before and taking new medicines, just as the round-the-clock support of the ward falls away.
A little planning before discharge makes a big difference. Here is a simple checklist to help.
Before your loved one leaves the hospital
Ask to speak to the discharge planner or case manager. They can explain what to expect and what support is being arranged. It helps to ask:
- 1Which medicines are new, changed or stopped, and when should they be taken?
- 2What warning signs mean we should call the doctor?
- 3Will a nurse or therapist visit at home, and who arranges it?
- 4What equipment is needed, such as a walker, shower chair or raised toilet seat?
- 5When is the follow-up appointment, and how will they get there?
Getting the home ready
- Clear walkways and remove loose rugs, especially between the bed, bathroom and kitchen
- Put everyday things within easy reach, so there is no need to bend or climb
- Add night lights along the route to the bathroom
- Stock the fridge with simple, nourishing meals and plenty to drink
- Set up a bed downstairs for a while if stairs are hard
Our home safety checklist has more ideas, room by room.
Help in the first few weeks
This is when an extra pair of hands helps most. A caregiver can:
- Help with showering, dressing and getting to the bathroom safely
- Give medication reminders and keep track of appointments
- Prepare meals and make sure they are eating and drinking
- Keep on top of laundry and light housekeeping
- Notice changes and let the family know
Some people need help for a few weeks, others for longer. Care can start with a few hours a day and change as your loved one gets stronger. See our personal care and housekeeping services.
Home health and home care together
If the doctor orders home health care, a nurse or therapist will visit for short appointments. Home care fills the hours in between. Our guide to home care vs home health care explains the difference.
“Plan before discharge, not after. It makes the first days at home calmer for everyone.”
- Talk to the discharge planner, and get the medicine list and warning signs in writing.
- Get the home ready before the return: clear paths, night lights and simple meals.
- Extra help in the first weeks can make recovery safer and easier on the whole family.
- Home health care and home care often work side by side.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the discharge instructions from your loved one’s hospital and doctor.
