Transitioning into skilled nursing care from a home setting, independent living, or assisted living can be a significant and often stressful turning point in a senior's life, as well as for their families. This decision, which often follows a hospital stay due to a health event, can bring a multitude of complex emotions and challenges. Despite these difficulties, it's an integral part of ensuring optimum health and well-being as we age. The process calls for careful planning, patience, and profound understanding to navigate successfully.
Admission into Skilled Nursing: First Step Recap
The admission process begins after a senior's health condition warrants extended professional care. For instance, this could be a result of a fall, an injury, or a surgery that requires focused rehabilitation and daily nursing care. The transition from a hospital to a skilled nursing facility often happens swiftly, with minimal time to adjust.
“The facility’s dedicated admissions team usually communicates with the hospital, the patient, and their family to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible,” said Elderwood Chief Operating Officer Phil Quillard. “They explain the procedures, the expected stay duration, rehabilitation plans, and address any questions or concerns the family might have.”
Also, individuals may enter subacute rehabilitation, a targeted recovery program aimed to restore strength and mobility, with a goal of returning home. However, if full recovery is not possible or home is no longer considered a safe option, the decision of transitioning to skilled nursing care might be necessary. This shift can evoke mixed emotions but is driven by the priority of the individual's health and safety.
Managing the Transition: Resident and Family Perspectives
This transition into skilled nursing can pose a challenge for the senior resident, who may grapple with a sense of loss pertaining to their previous independence and their previous living environment. It's essential to offer emotional support, reaffirm their value, and emphasize that the decision was made prioritizing their health and safety.
Family members might find accepting this new reality equally challenging. Open dialogues with the healthcare team, support from social workers or counselors at the facility, and joining support groups can aid in coping with these changes.
What Happens After Admission
Post-admission into a skilled nursing facility, the resident might encounter a whirl of new faces, routines, and environments. This period of adjustment is aided by healthcare professionals who provide immediate care and comfort. A comprehensive health assessment informs the development of a personalized care plan outlining necessary care, therapies, and activities.
Residents' days are occupied with therapeutic exercises, medication schedules, and social activities to foster community and encourage social engagement.
“It can be overwhelming initially in the first few days, but the staff's dedicated support makes this transition smoother, focusing on creating a comforting environment conducive to healing and progress,” said Quillard.
Steps to Remember on Your Journey
Understanding the process, maintaining open communication with the healthcare team, and seeking support can help manage the transition into skilled nursing more effectively.
Remember, the primary goal of skilled nursing care is to provide the best possible care for the resident while maximizing their quality of life. Every decision made is with this goal.
At Elderwood, we stand beside you as partners on this complex journey. Our compassionate team is committed to easing the transition and ensuring the best possible care for your loved ones. To learn more about our services, discover a location near you, or to book a tour, we invite you to visit Elderwood.com. We're here to support you every step of the way.