Rehabilitation services offer short-term stays in nursing facilities for those requiring around-the-clock rehabilitative care. It is not a permanent living arrangement. The goal of a rehabilitation stay is to return a senior to health after:
- illness
- injury
- surgery
- accident
Upon release from rehab, your loved one should have regained some level of independence, be able to return to their previous home, perhaps with a few accommodations.
Rehabilitation stays are not a permanent living arrangement.
Services
Rehabilitation facilities may vary in the services they offer – however, the main goal is to return the patient to some level of health. Services such as:
- nursing care
- physical therapy
- occupational therapy
Specialization
Rehabilitation programs are surveyed often by state boards or other agencies. It’s a good idea to look research the programs being considered before your elder loved one is admitted. These surveys are available online.
Preparation
- Medicare usually pays for rehabilitative care for a six-week stay; double check.
- Rehabilitation facilities are typically recommended by hospitals, however, you can request a facility of choice.
- Understand the doctors’ prognoses and recommendations for ongoing treatment.
- Create a list of medical doctors involved, their diagnosis and prescribed medications.
- Define special dietary requirements or other specific needs.
- Clearly define your budget in order to make realistic decisions about accommodations.
- Because laundry is usually done in bulk, make sure to label all clothing clearly. You also may be wise to do your loved one’s laundry yourself
Evaluation
- What is the staff member to patient ratio?
- What are the qualifications of your staff members?
- How closely are junior staff members monitored by RNs and doctors?
- Are background-checks required?
- What are the qualifications of your physical and occupational therapists?
- Request a regular care conference to understand the progress being made.
- Will you accommodate my elder loved ones’ special requests?
- Please provide us with your recommendations for treatment.
- How often are patients re-evaluated for ongoing progress and what methods are used?