We have all heard this story before, “A Loved One” is inevitably getting older and this is raising some concern. They claim to be “OK and that there is no need to WORRY!” Unfortunately, you come to find out that your loved one has experienced a medical setback and needs to be hospitalized. This is the first sign that you have entered into “The Healthcare Maze.” After being admitted into the hospital the next step is some type of operative procedure following rehabilitation. Typically, they are discharged to a rehab center and will stay for an extended period of time. The next step is hopefully a full recovery and a safe return home. Unfortunately, this is rare, far too often patients “plateau” where their condition becomes stagnant. If a patient plateau’s then there are multiple options but it is usually difficult to choose which one is right for your loved one. What if you could have avoided this situation and eliminated the series of events that have transpired. Here are some helpful tips to be “Proactive vs. Reactive and avoid the Healthcare Maze.”
Even though an aging loved one claims "IÂ’m OK, thereÂ’s nothing to worry about." If your intuition tells you otherwise ask the following questions:"Are they:"
- Eating nutritious meals?
- Compliant with their medications?
- Showering or bathing daily?
- Changing or washing their clothes and linens?
- Having issues with toileting?
- Unhappy or inactive?
- At risk for falling?
All of thesequestions affect what we call Activities of Daily Living. If a family member has the inability to perform the above activities these are “Red Flags” for concern. These indicators allow you approach the situation “Proactively” which may help you in avoiding the “Healthcare Maze.” How do you avoid this situation and how can we be Proactive? In a “perfect world” you: call, visit, and deliver 3 meals daily to your loved one. You schedule daily activities and outings to help them with boredom and depression. You never miss their doctor’s appointments and once a week you help with cleaning and organizing their home. Unfortunately, outside factors influence our freedom & autonomy to perform these tasks. The inability to do so is usually affected by your employer’s flexibility, personal responsibilities and the distance to visit a loved one? However, you shouldn’t feel guilty! There are options available that can help assist you in providing the absolute best level of care for your parents. So, here are some options to be “Proactive:”
- Visit Independent and Assisted Living Facilities (There are many facilities throughout the community that can provide the absolute best amenities for your loved one.) For example, Independence Village may be a great option for your aging loved one. You may visit them at www.independencevillage.com
- Call a licensed Home Care Agency and inquire about “a free in home consultation.” Companies like HomeWell Senior Care will provide a “free, no obligation consultation.” This can be a valuable resource, allowing you to consider all options available to you and your loved one. You may visit their website at www. sanantonio.homewellcares.com
- Make their home more “Senior Friendly” build a ramp to get in and out of the house more conveniently, make hallways and bathrooms wheelchair accessible, convert the bathtub to a walkin shower, place handrails throughout the home to avoid the risk of falling. Home Improvement / Modifications projects can be done as a weekend projects or many professional handymen can help with the process.
- Inquire about an Emergency Response System. Companies like Acadian on Call can provide 24hr monitoring of your loved one at a very affordable price.
- Or do nothing, the choice is yours!
