Recovery often takes time, especially for older adults. After hospitalization, injury, illness, or surgery, loved ones may not be ready to return to their homes. Additional monitoring, medication management, and strength rebuilding may be necessary.
Skilled nursing rehabilitation care can provide continued care. These often include a variety of services, including 24/7 nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology.
But how can you tell your loved one may need skilled nursing rehabilitation? Our team at Lakeport Post Acute provides you with guidance to make the right decision.
Signs It’s Time to Consider Skilled Nursing Rehabilitation
Person Is Having Difficulty Walking
If your loved one is having issues walking like they used to, this is an important sign that the person may need rehabilitation. Other signs include:
- Struggling when standing
- Difficulty with walking more than a few steps
- Using the stairs
- Getting in and out of a chair
Physical therapy can work with your loved one to get them steadier on their feet.
They Are Having Trouble Performing Daily Living Tasks
If your loved one can no longer easily bathe, dress, groom, or do their toiletries, rehabilitation may be the best option. Occupational therapists can work with residents to restore their abilities. This will help them live confidently and safely.
Your Loved One Is Easily Fatigued
Sudden weakness and fatigue can be due to long periods of inactivity. Rehabilitation specialists can create an exercise plan to increase strength and endurance. It will also help prevent further decline.
They Need Medical Monitoring
Skilled nursing ensures that the person receives continuing care. This may include management of an ongoing condition, medication management, or therapy.
Skilled nursing facilities provide 24/7 care, including pain management, wound care, and continuous monitoring.
Person Is Falling More Often
Problems with balance or falling are not uncommon after surgery or illness. But these issues can affect daily routines. If someone falls after surgery or a hospital stay, this increases the chances of injuries and readmission.
Skilled nursing rehabilitation will include exercises designed to increase balance, strength, and mobility.
The Family Can’t Handle the Additional Needs
Family caregiver burnout is a real issue. If the patient needs more help than usual, it might be more than you can handle. A rehabilitation facility can provide additional support.
It’s Not Safe to Return Home
There’s a risk for a person to return home immediately after a hospital stay. If someone can’t easily walk, navigate the stairs, or get out of bed, then this can be extremely risky.
The goal of rehabilitation is not to keep the person confined in a facility. Instead, it’s designed to help your loved one have the strength and skills to return home. Our team will provide them with the attention they need to move safely in their home environment.
How Our Skilled Nursing Rehabilitation Care Can Help
At Lakeport Post Acute, we offer skilled nursing and rehabilitation care. Our programs combine several disciplines to ensure we meet the person’s needs.
We will create goals, determine the person’s current condition, and determine which care makes the most sense.
This care may include:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Skilled nursing care
- Speech therapy
- Rehabilitation exercises
Trust us with the care of your loved one. Schedule an appointment today.