How Can Seniors Prepare for a Hospital Stay?
Planned hospitalizations for surgery or procedures allow time to prepare, improving the experience and outcomes. Even when hospitalization is unexpected, knowing what helps can improve your stay. Understanding how to prepare and what to bring helps seniors navigate hospital care more effectively.
Before Admission
Complete any required pre-admission testing well before your scheduled procedure. Attend pre-operative appointments where staff will explain what to expect. Ask questions about the procedure, recovery, and what to do beforehand.
Arrange for someone to drive you home after discharge and stay with you initially. Most procedures prevent driving for at least 24 hours after anesthesia. Having help at home during early recovery is essential for most surgical patients.
Prepare your home for recovery before leaving. Stock up on groceries and medications. Set up a comfortable recovery area with necessities within reach. Address tasks that will be difficult during recovery. Complete laundry and clean so you return to a manageable environment.
What to Bring
Bring identification, insurance cards, and advance directive documents. Your healthcare power of attorney should have copies of relevant documents. Bring a list of all medications with doses, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for discharge. Non-skid socks or slippers are useful for walking in the hospital. Bring personal hygiene items though hospitals provide basics. Reading glasses, hearing aids with extra batteries, and dentures should come with you.
Bring items that provide comfort like books, tablets, phone chargers, and family photos. Earplugs and eye masks help with sleep in noisy, bright hospital environments. A small amount of cash may be useful but leave valuables at home.
Medication Management
Inform hospital staff of all medications you take. Bring your medication list or the actual medication bottles so nothing is missed. The hospital pharmacy will provide medications during your stay, but accurate information is essential for safety.
Understand which home medications to continue, stop, or adjust before procedures. Blood thinners, diabetes medications, and others may require specific instructions. Follow pre-procedure medication guidance exactly.
During Your Stay
Ask questions about your care, medications, and what to expect. Request explanations you can understand. Know who is caring for you and their roles. Participate actively in care decisions.
Speak up about pain so it can be managed. Request assistance with walking rather than risking falls. Wash hands frequently and ask staff to do the same before touching you.
Preparing for Discharge
Discharge planning should begin early in your stay. Understand what care you will need at home. Arrange for home health services if ordered. Know what medications to take and which to stop. Understand warning signs requiring medical attention.
Confirm follow-up appointments before leaving. Know who to call with questions after discharge. Ensure you have prescriptions filled and equipment you need at home.
Getting Hospital Preparation Help
All Seniors Foundation can help seniors prepare for hospital stays and arrange post-discharge services. Good preparation improves outcomes and reduces stress. Contact us for assistance with hospitalization planning.
