By Lance A. Slatton
As we age, hospitalization becomes more daunting due to high costs, infection risks, and the stress of an unfamiliar environment. While essential, hospitals are often not the most comfortable or safest places for older adults. In fact, many seniors find hospital stays not only taxing but also detrimental to their recovery, facing risks such as hospital-acquired infections and physical decline. Fortunately, an innovative model of care is gaining momentum to address these concerns: the “Hospital at Home” movement. This approach allows older adults to receive hospital-level care in their own homes, creating a safer, more comfortable environment while ensuring they get the medical attention they need.
The “Hospital at Home” model brings services typically provided in a hospital setting, such as intravenous treatments, oxygen therapy, and vital sign monitoring, into the patient’s home. A medical team, supported by telemedicine, oversees patient care through in-person visits and remote monitoring. Conditions like pneumonia, heart failure, and COPD, which often require hospitalization, can now be managed at home, providing older adults with an alternative to long hospital stays. The key to this model’s success lies in its use of technology. Telehealth services allow healthcare providers to track patients’ progress in real time, reducing the need for physical hospitalization while ensuring that care is delivered effectively.
For older adults, the “Hospital at Home” movement offers numerous benefits. One major advantage is the reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections like MRSA or C. difficile, which can be particularly dangerous for seniors with compromised immune systems. Being treated at home limits exposure to these pathogens. Additionally, the comfort of familiar surroundings can positively affect a patient’s mental health. Hospital settings can disorient older adults, but being at home can alleviate confusion and provide emotional stability, allowing them to recover with the support of loved ones nearby.
Maintaining mobility is another benefit of receiving care at home. Prolonged hospital stays often result in decreased mobility and muscle weakness, whereas being at home allows patients to engage in daily activities, preserving their physical strength. Furthermore, the “Hospital at Home” model can lead to significant cost savings. Hospital stays are expensive, and for patients and insurers alike, home care offers a more affordable alternative. Some estimates suggest this model can reduce costs by up to 30%. Additionally, patients benefit from more personalized care at home, where medical teams can focus on individual needs rather than juggling numerous patients in a busy hospital ward.
Beyond the “Hospital at Home” movement, transitioning from a rehabilitation facility back to home after a hospital stay is another critical aspect of care for older adults. After an illness or surgery, many patients require rehab to regain strength and function before returning home. However, this transition can be tricky if not managed properly. Preparing the home for a safe recovery is essential. Modifications may be necessary depending on the patient’s condition. For example, installing grab bars in the bathroom, setting up ramps for wheelchair access, and removing tripping hazards can make the home safer. In some cases, ongoing medical care and support may be needed, including assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. It’s also important to coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure follow-up care, such as physical therapy or home health services.
For family members stepping into caregiving roles, proper training is crucial. Knowing how to assist with mobility, administer medications, and manage the patient’s overall care can make a significant difference in the recovery process. Caregivers must be prepared to handle both the physical and emotional demands of caring for an older adult transitioning from rehab to home. This includes addressing any emotional or cognitive challenges the patient may face after returning home. Leaving the structure of a rehab facility can be anxiety-inducing, and the isolation of home may exacerbate feelings of loneliness or depression. Cognitive issues, such as memory loss or confusion, may also arise after a prolonged illness or hospital stay, further complicating the transition.
To support patients emotionally, it’s important to seek mental health resources if needed. Therapy, counseling, or participation in local support groups can help older adults navigate the emotional challenges of returning home. If cognitive decline is a concern, cognitive rehabilitation exercises can be helpful. These programs are designed to improve memory and thinking skills, allowing patients to regain lost abilities and boost overall brain function.
Looking ahead, the “Hospital at Home” model is shaping the future of aging care by providing a safer, more cost-effective alternative to traditional hospital stays. For many seniors, it offers the chance to receive the care they need in a comfortable and familiar environment. However, it’s important to recognize that not every patient will be a good fit for this model. Some may require more intensive care than can be provided at home, and others may face logistical challenges, such as insufficient space or lack of internet access. Nonetheless, as technology advances and healthcare providers continue to adapt, more older adults will likely be able to benefit from this innovative approach.
For those transitioning from rehab to home, creating a supportive and safe environment is essential. Whether through home modifications, caregiver training, or continued medical care, the goal is to ensure that older adults can recover successfully at home. Ultimately, both the “Hospital at Home” model and a smooth transition from rehab to home reflect a broader shift in how we think about aging and healthcare. By prioritizing comfort, safety, and personalized care, we can empower older adults to live independently and recover without compromising their quality of life.
References
https://www.johnshopkinssolutions.com/solution/hospital-at-home/
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-024-01040-9
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10023005/
https://pxjournal.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1660&context=journal
Lance A. Slatton CSCM is a healthcare professional with over 18 years in the healthcare industry. Lance is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also host of the podcast All Home Care Matters, a podcast and YouTube channel. By subscribing to All Home Care Matters, you will gain access to a wealth of information and tips that can help you provide the best possible home care for your loved one. Lance writes a monthly column on McKnight’s Home Care website and he was named a 50 under 50 for 2023. Lance’s new book, The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers’ Guide, is a road map for family caregivers from the start of their caregiving journey to the end, and everything in between. Lance can be reached at [email protected].
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