They’re coming home. They’ve overcome the hurdle thrown in their way. But very quickly, another feeling often follows: concern. They have been through a lot, and so have you. You find yourself questioning whether they’re strong enough, whether they are mobile and whether they’ll have adequate care at home. This is a common feeling. It’s one of the most common emotional experiences families face, and it’s completely understandable. A sudden discharge can feel like being handed a new responsibility without any time to prepare.
Fortunately, you don’t have to figure it out alone!
You may not have the right equipment, you may not know what’s essential and you may not have time to research everything. Use the guidance of hospital staff; they will be able to explain the essentials to give you a starting point on your loved one’s specific condition. However, they may not be able to advise on the specific requirements of a patient’s home outside of the basics.
For residents around Essex, Able-Aid are specialists in fitting a home to the needs of disabled clients. We do home visits and can advise over the phone. Never hesitate to contact our team.
Depending on your loved one’s condition and mobility, some additional furniture or equipment may make coming home much easier.
Riser recliners, for example, can provide comfort, support and greater independence at home. Our tilt-in-space riser recliners allow the whole chair to move while keeping the user well supported, helping them find a comfortable position for resting or sitting. The riser function can also make standing up easier, particularly for those with reduced strength or mobility following a hospital stay.
Care beds can make a real difference for someone recovering at home. With adjustable positioning, they can make getting in and out of bed easier, improve comfort and provide better support for those who may be spending more time in bed. They can also make things easier for carers, particularly when helping with everyday care and repositioning.Care beds can make a real difference for someone recovering at home. With adjustable positioning, they can make getting in and out of bed easier, improve comfort and provide better support for those who may be spending more time in bed. They can also make things easier for carers, particularly when helping with everyday care and repositioning.
Other care furniture, such as overbed tables and supportive seating, can also make day-to-day life more manageable during recovery.
Mobility aids can be just as important. Sticks, crutches and walking frames can provide additional support for those who are unsteady or rebuilding their strength after a hospital stay. For those who are unable to walk safely, a wheelchair may be needed, while mobility scooters can help those who are mobile but unable to manage longer distances.
The right equipment will depend entirely on the individual, their home and their expected recovery. If you’re unsure what your loved one needs, professional advice can help you avoid buying equipment that isn’t suitable or necessary.
Care beds, riser recliners, wheelchairs, scooters can be expensive. Often families don’t know whether they’ll be needed for weeks, months, or just a short recovery period. Hiring gives you breathing room. Further, it gives you a stress free means of passing along equipment when recovery is complete. You won’t need to arrange resale or donate it, you can simply return it to us.
And if it turns out your loved one will benefit from having equipment permanently, having hired in the past will give you the knowledge you need to choose the right long term option.
As always, should you need anything during the turbulent period post discharge, our team is there to help. If you are able, our doors are always open. Visit our showroom or book a consultation with one of our team members and find out exactly what you need!
