If your senior loved one is in need of extra care, but they're not quite ready to live in a full-time nursing home, a convalescent home may be a good alternative. These types of facilities specialize in specific care designed to help the elderly as they recover from an illness or injury. Some of the most common reasons for needing the help of a convalescent home include coping with a stroke, injuries from a fall such as hip fractures, neurological conditions, or various types of trauma. If you've considered a convalescent home, here is what you need to know about the care your loved one will receive.
Types Of Care
There are two main types of convalescent care: sub-acute and post-acute care. For patients in sub-acute care, they'll receive short-term medical care for serious illnesses or trauma as well as rehabilitation at the home. As they receive treatment, they'll be able to regain strength and then return back to their own home once they're deemed healthy enough to live independently. For patients in post-acute care, they may need more intensive treatments in the hospital before they can return home. Nursing and home health care workers may also be able to provide patients with post-acute care directly in their homes.
Help From Staff
The types of staff members at a convalescent home can vary from physicians and rehab nurses to physical therapists and case managers. There may also be dietitians and clergy members on staff. Each person plays a separate yet vital role in helping patients with their recovery. Most convalescent homes have nurses on staff 24 hours a day to address any medical emergencies or pressing needs. The length of time that someone needs to stay in a convalescent home will vary anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the severity of their condition.
Types Of Therapy
The goal of a convalescent home is to assist patients with their recovery as quickly as possible so they'll be able to transition back to a normal lifestyle. Occupational therapy can be provided to help people regain their physical and mental abilities. Exercises will be practiced daily so that patients can continue to bathe and dress themselves without help. Speech therapy is also provided for many patients, particularly those recovering from a stroke. This type of therapy will focus on thinking and reasoning skills, as well as help those who are having difficulty speaking or swallowing. Psychological and physical therapy is also provided in order to help people cope with their recent illness or injury. The goal is to help people get back their physical and mental strength in order to move forward towards a healthy life back at home.
