Preventing Hospitalisation: A Guide for the Elderly and Those with Chronic Conditions

When our loved ones grow older, it becomes important to prioritise their health and well-being, particularly in order to prevent avoidable hospitalisations. Being in a hospital can be overwhelming and potentially risky for older adults, as they may be exposed to infections and feel disoriented in an unfamiliar environment. At Home Instead New Forest, we prioritise addressing these concerns by offering home care services that prioritise the safety, health, and comfort of seniors in their own homes.

Discover the caring and thorough home care services offered by Home Instead New Forest, which can effectively reduce the need for hospitalisation for you or your loved ones.

A caregiver in a purple shirt helps an elderly man in a wheelchair adjust his sweater in a cozy, book-filled room. - Home Instead

NHS Guidelines on Preventing Unplanned Admissions

The NHS prioritises proactive care coordination and increased support for at-risk populations to prevent unexpected hospitalisations. Some effective strategies include:

  • Identifying At-Risk Individuals: Early detection of individuals who may be at risk of health issues.
  • Comprehensive Care Management Plans: Providing personalised care management plans that are tailored to meet individual needs and conditions.
  • Consistent Check-Ins: Guaranteeing ongoing observation and prompt actions.
  • Patient Education: Empowering patients with knowledge about their health and self-care practices through patient education.

For more detailed methodologies, please visit the NHS guidelines on preventing unplanned admissions here.

Coping with Communication Challenges

Practical Tips

To ensure the smooth implementation of these services, families and care professionals:

  • Establish a consistent schedule that both care professionals and clients can easily follow.
  • Maintain regular communication with care professionals to stay informed and address any concerns.
  • Consistently evaluate care plans to accommodate evolving health requirements.
An elderly woman and a caregiver play a board game at a table, with framed pictures hanging on the wall behind them. - Home Instead

Home Instead New Forest: Home Care Services

  1. Customised Care Programs

    Each senior has distinct health conditions, needs, and preferences. At Home Instead New Forest, we develop customised care programs for every individual, focusing on their particular health challenges and risks to minimise the potential for hospital visits.

  2. Medication Supervision

    Proper medication management is crucial for preventing unnecessary hospital stays. Our trained caregivers provide medication reminders and assistance, ensuring medications are taken accurately and on schedule. This vigilance helps maintain health stability and prevent medical emergencies.

  3. Regular Health Assessments

    Consistent monitoring of health can identify early signs of potential health issues. Our caregivers are attentive to any changes in the health and behaviour of our clients, checking vital signs, tracking symptoms, and communicating concerns to families and medical professionals swiftly. This proactive care is essential for preventing hospitalisations.

  4. Dietary Management and Meal Preparation

    Nutrition plays a critical role in overall health. Poor nutrition can worsen existing health conditions and increase hospitalisation risk. Our caregivers help with meal planning and preparation, ensuring that each meal is nutritious and meets the dietary preferences and needs of our clients.

  5. Social Engagement and Emotional Support

    Isolation can severely impact physical and mental health, sometimes necessitating medical intervention. Our caregivers offer companionship and actively engage clients in activities that promote social interaction and emotional health, helping to ward off depression and anxiety.

  6. Prevention of Falls

    Falls are a common cause of injury in seniors, often leading to hospitalisation. We perform detailed safety assessments in homes to eliminate fall risks. Our caregivers aid with mobility and daily tasks, substantially lowering the likelihood of falls.

  7. Management of Chronic Conditions

    Chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis require ongoing management. Our caregivers are equipped to aid clients in managing these diseases through consistent monitoring, coordinating medical appointments, and ensuring adherence to treatment regimens, thereby averting serious complications.

  8. Readiness for Emergencies

    Emergencies can happen, despite preventive strategies. Home Instead New Forest prepares caregivers with emergency training and ensures clients have quick access to emergency response systems. This preparation is crucial for rapid intervention in critical situations, helping to avoid hospital admissions.

Coping with Communication Challenges

Making a Difference with Compassionate Care At Home Instead New Forest

Our mission extends beyond mere caregiving to truly making a meaningful impact in our clients’ lives. Through dedicated, compassionate care, we enable our clients to enjoy healthier, more fulfilling lives without the need for frequent hospital visits. For more details on how we can customise our services to meet your needs, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are committed to delivering the care your loved ones need and deserve.

A caregiver waves while assisting an elderly man in a wheelchair with a tablet in a cozy living room. - Home Instead

Areas We Serve

Lymington, Brockenhurst, New Milton, Totton, Lyndhurst & the surrounding areas.

BH23 8, BH24 4, BH25 5, BH25 6, BH25 7, SO40 2, SO40 3, SO40 4, SO40 7, SO40 8, SO40 9, SO41 0, SO41 3, SO41 5, SO41 6, SO41 8, SO41 9, SO42 7, SO43 7, SO45 1, SO45 2, SO45 3, SO45 4, SO45 5, SO45 6

5 Rashley Mews, High St, Lymington SO41 9AR, UK

01590 637 250

https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/new-forest/