If you are serving as a caregiver for an injured loved one, preparing your space to be as safe as possible for their return home from the hospital is critical. Not only will this help prevent further injury, but it is also helpful to create a safe and comforting space for their emotional well-being. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of preparing your home to care for an injured relative to ensure a speedy recovery ahead.

Evaluate Your Space

Before the patient comes home, it is important to evaluate your space to decide what improvements are needed based on the limitations of the individual. Understanding the ins and outs of their injury by speaking with their doctor is critical. For example, will they be able to climb the stairs? Will they be able to feed themselves? Using the bathroom is another key factor to consider so that you can establish a baseline for setting up a recovery space.

Set Up a Comfortable Recovery Area

You’ll want to set up a designated recovery area, too. This can include a bed, a bedside table with all of their necessities, a medication chart, and a pillbox. Medication management will be one of the most important jobs that you have as a care provider, and their dedicated space should accommodate this. Investing in an adjustable bed is also recommended, as this will allow the patient to easily recline from a seated position to a lying position and vice versa.

Improve Accessibility

Improving accessibility can also help to speed up the recovery process and avoid further injury. Moving their recovery space to the first floor of your home to avoid any stairs or hallways is typically recommended. You should also move phones and other notification devices close to them so that they can call for help within reach. Making sure that the bathroom and kitchen setup is tailored to their needs can also help provide you peace of mind.

Prepare Medical Equipment and Supplies

The hospital or inpatient facility will recommend specific medical supplies that will be necessary for your patient’s recovery. These items can include a wheelchair, a walker, and a combination of over-the-counter and prescribed medications. Make sure to have your home fully stocked with these items before the patient’s arrival.

Create a Safe Environment

When caring for an injured relative, creating a safe environment can help avoid accidents that can lead to further injury. Small improvements, such as installing non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower, as well as changing light bulbs to brighter alternatives to keep hallways and stairwells well-illuminated, can make all the difference. 

You should also be careful to remove any clutter that can block hallways and doorways, remove any rugs that can be a tripping hazard, and secure any electrical cords that can get caught in recovery machinery or on shoelaces. Consult with your healthcare provider to find out what specific accommodations they recommend to make your relative’s recovery as smooth as possible.

Plan for Daily Needs

Planning for daily needs will help you to avoid any surprise occurrences. Mealtime and bath time should be your top priorities. Be sure to understand any dietary restrictions or special food needs before the patient comes home. A nutritionist will often meet with the patient before they are discharged to recommend feeding techniques and different foods that can aid in recovery. Preparing meals and freezing them before the patient arrives home can help you save time once they arrive and avoid having to leave them unattended to cook.

Establish Communication Channels

Be sure to make it known that you are the primary contact for your recovering relative’s care needs. Speak with the hospital and doctor directly to have an introductory conversation and establish a clear communication channel. This will be important if you have any questions and to book follow-up appointments down the line.

Seek Support

Caring for an injured relative can feel like a full-time job, so it is important to seek support when needed. Home health aides can assist with daily tasks and allow you to have a break in order to recharge and provide the best care possible when you return. Insurance may cover some of the costs of these additional resources, so be sure to speak up and ask for help when needed!

We hope this article helped you better prepare your home to care for an injured relative. Be sure to check out the rest of ATC Medical’s online store to best prepare your home to be a place for recovery and rejuvenation.