When the Hospital Says 'Go Home' — Now What?

Caregiving can be a journey of unexpected twists and turns. Over the past year, my mom has had several emergency department visits, with the most recent one being a broken pelvis. What seemed like a simple hospital discharge quickly turned into months of medical appointments, physical therapy, and a new set of challenges to navigate. It’s not just about managing physical injuries; it’s about rethinking daily life and what’s possible moving forward.

At times, it felt overwhelming, especially when compounded by new injuries we hadn’t anticipated. But the support from family, caregivers, and healthcare professionals has made it easier to bear. It’s a reminder that no one has to do this alone.

Planning for a New Normal

My husband or I, or both of us, have been there nearly every day since my mom’s fall. It’s a lot to manage, but we’ve been able to rely on help from others when needed. My sister came twice, for a few days each time, to lend a hand, and my brother made several afternoon visits from out of town to check on them and give us a much-needed break.

One big help came even before my mom’s hospital discharge: that same brother had already contacted our local home medical and accessibility store. They had the necessary equipment ready and waiting, which made the transition from hospital to home significantly smoother. Having those resources in place ahead of time was a huge relief during an otherwise stressful moment.

Additionally, the support of friends and professional caregivers has been invaluable. Having a strong network around us has made all the difference. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

The Importance of Clear Communication

Managing medical appointments has proven tricky, especially when insurance and scheduling issues come into play. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is making sure you’re authorized to speak to doctors on your loved one’s behalf. For us, that authorization was set up years ago, but there were still hiccups. One doctor was out of network and repeatedly called my mom’s phone, leading to an appointment mix-up. I had to step in, and thankfully, I was able to switch the contact number to my own.

The moral of the story? Advocate for yourself and your loved one. You’re their voice when they need it most. It’s vital to make sure everything is in place, especially when it comes to care coordination.

Finding Strength in the Struggle

It’s been a challenging few months, but what keeps me going is seeing my mom’s ability to adapt. She’s regaining strength, even though she still needs support to walk. Small victories, like getting around more easily with her rollator, remind me that recovery isn’t just about the big milestones. It’s about the daily progress.