Recognizing the signs your loved one may need skilled nursing or rehabilitation support can be difficult after a hospital stay. Following an illness, injury or surgery, some individuals may need additional medical care, therapy or assistance before returning home.
Every situation is different, and decisions about the appropriate level of care should be discussed with the individual’s healthcare provider and hospital discharge team. However, recognizing certain changes may help families understand when skilled nursing or short-term rehabilitation could be worth exploring.
At Carroll Health & Rehab, our interdisciplinary team works with residents and families to develop individualized care plans based on each person’s medical needs, abilities and recovery goals.
1. Difficulty Walking or Moving Safely
After hospitalization, your loved one may have difficulty standing, walking, using stairs or moving between a bed and chair.
Changes in strength, balance or mobility may increase the risk of falls and make it harder to manage safely at home. A therapy assessment can help determine whether physical rehabilitation may be appropriate.
Physical therapy may address strength, balance, coordination, mobility and endurance based on the individual’s abilities and goals.
2. Trouble Managing Medications or Medical Needs
New medications, wound care instructions or changes in a chronic condition may be difficult to manage without assistance. Families may want to discuss additional support when a loved one needs help with:
- Medication management
- Wound care
- IV therapy or injections
- Post-surgical care
- Chronic illness monitoring
Depending on the individual’s needs, skilled nursing may provide clinical oversight and support during recovery. Carroll Health & Rehab offers 24/7 licensed nursing oversight as part of an individualized plan of care.
3. Increased Weakness or Fatigue
Illness, surgery and extended hospital stays can leave someone feeling weaker or more tired than expected.
Everyday activities such as getting dressed, bathing, eating or walking to the bathroom may suddenly require significantly more effort. New or worsening weakness should always be discussed with a medical professional.
When clinically appropriate, rehabilitation may help an individual work toward improved strength, mobility and endurance at a pace that reflects their current abilities.
4. Difficulty With Everyday Activities
A person may be medically stable but still have difficulty managing daily routines independently. This may include challenges with:
- Bathing and dressing
- Grooming
- Preparing or eating meals
- Using the bathroom
- Moving safely around the home
- Remembering the steps of familiar tasks
Occupational therapy may help individuals practice or adapt the skills needed for daily living. Treatment may also include assistive equipment or strategies intended to support greater safety and independence.
5. Falls or Concerns About Safety at Home
A recent fall, repeated near falls or a new fear of walking may be reasons to request a professional assessment.
You may notice that your loved one is holding onto furniture, avoiding stairs, appearing unsteady or requiring more physical assistance than before.
These concerns do not automatically mean skilled nursing or rehabilitation is necessary. However, they may be worth discussing before the individual returns home, particularly if limited caregiver support is available.
Start With a Conversation
Exploring skilled nursing or short-term rehabilitation does not mean that a decision has already been made. It is an opportunity to learn what services are available and whether they may be appropriate for your loved one’s situation.
If someone you love is preparing to leave the hospital, Carroll Health & Rehab’s admissions team is available to answer questions, discuss available services and help you better understand your options.
Call Carroll Health & Rehab at (318) 428-3249 to begin the conversation.
This article is intended for general educational purposes and should not be used to diagnose a condition or determine the appropriate level of care. Please consult the individual’s healthcare provider or hospital discharge team for personalized guidance.