Did you know that two-thirds of people admitted to hospital are 65 years old or over, and an increasing number of those are frail or have dementia? Once hospital care has been provided, the elderly patient will likely need care afterwards. However, sometimes, it’s difficult for relatives or loved ones to provide this vital care - that is where professional respite care comes in. Respite is both essential to the patient’s recovery and beneficial to family members or friends caring for loved ones.
If you are looking for quality respite care in Slough, Berkshire, then contact Oxford House.
Why do elderly patients need respite care after hospital?
Respite care is ideal for elderly people following a stint in hospital or after a medical procedure for many reasons:
- To support the recovery process
- For continued medical care or support
- To help around the house if the primary caregiver or family goes out
- To give caregivers a break
- To prevent loneliness
To support the recovery process and to continue medical care
A vital aspect of respite care is supporting the recovery process and ensuring the continuity of care transition between hospital and home is as smooth as possible.
Sometimes, especially if the patient has had surgery or been in hospital for a long time, it might be that they need support with their recovery. Respite care can ensure they receive regular (and in some cases, 24/7) to help them regain strength.
In short, respite care can ensure a professional caregiver monitors the patient regularly or round-the-clock, even if that’s through the night.
Help around the house if the main caregiver goes out
Suppose the primary caregiver or the elderly person’s family goes out. In that case, respite care is great for helping around the house with simple chores and tasks, including walking, bathing, dressing and personal care. Similarly, respite care can ensure the elderly person’s medical needs are met as they recover from their stay in hospital - in other words, respite care visits can ensure the elderly person is taking their medication when required.
To give the main caregiver a break
When an elderly person returns from hospital, their main caregiver must be looked after too. After all, caring for somebody - even if you love them - can be difficult and tiring, both physically and emotionally. The caregiver must have an opportunity to take a break too.
Additionally, respite care allows the caregiver to spend a few hours out of the house while knowing their elderly patient is being looked after. When an elderly person leaves the hospital, safety can be a considerable concern for their loved ones. Not only could a patient be frailer, but they could be more vulnerable to wounds and infection. This is why professional support must be in place from a qualified caregiver.
To prevent loneliness
Loneliness is a huge problem for elderly people - something that is made even worse if they have just returned from hospital and are still recovering or less mobile than before. Respite care provides essential socialisation for that person to help prevent loneliness as they get better. A friendly face, even if it’s just for a short time, can make a huge difference to an elderly person’s well-being.
Do you need respite care?
If you or somebody you know requires respite care in Slough, Berkshire, get in touch with Oxford House. Our team of friendly professionals are here to answer any of your questions.