Transitioning from a hospital setting to home care is a critical phase for individuals with disabilities, and the role of home care support workers is essential in making this shift as smooth and successful as possible.
Their assistance extends beyond managing medical needs; it also encompasses a broad range of activities that contribute to the individual's overall well-being and quality of life.
One of the benefits of Just Better Care is access to clinical teams of nurses and qualified Support Workers who can engage with hospital teams to ensure continuity of clinical care. Following a hospital discharge, individuals often have changes to their support needs, this may be due to complex medication regimes or changes in health status and monitoring requirements.
The Just Better Care team can provide support with medication management, in partnership with the individual, JBC will assess the level of support that is required. This may be to ensure that medications are taken correctly and on time, helping to organise medication reminders or administer medications as prescribed.
Just Better Care plays a crucial role in monitoring health metrics, such as taking vital signs like blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and promptly reporting any abnormal readings to applicable medical professionals. The Just Better Care team is also proficient at working with industry standard documentation of the care provided, which is valuable for healthcare providers in adjusting treatment plans and ensuring continuity of care.
Mobility and physical therapy are another significant area where professional home care services and access to allied health professionals can have a positive impact. For individuals with limited mobility or those undergoing rehabilitation, support workers help with transfers, such as moving from bed to wheelchair or from wheelchair to the bathroom, in line with the individuals manual handling plan.
In line with the individuals exercise program, JBC staff can support physical therapy exercises, which are essential for improving strength, flexibility, and mobility, thereby aiding in the individual’s recovery process.
In collaboration with Occupational Therapists, preparing the home environment is something that needs to be arranged prior to being discharged from hospital. This often involves assisting with home modifications, such as installing grab bars in the bathroom or ramps for wheelchair access and ensuring that the home is safe and accessible.
Regular safety checks are conducted to identify and address potential hazards like loose rugs or clutter that could cause trips and falls. Ensuring that a home is safe and functional, when returning from hospital is critical when assessing if an environment is suited to a patient’s recovery plan.
Personal care and hygiene are also another critical aspect as part of infection control. As part of Personal Care services, Support Workers assist customers with bathing, dressing, and grooming. Additionally, Support Workers help with toileting needs, including managing incontinence care, hygiene, cleanliness, and comfort.
Community access can be achieved with Travel and Transport to appointments, Domestic Assistance such as light housekeeping tasks, namely cleaning and laundry. This support ensures that the home remains a comfortable and functional environment, and customers remain independent and engaged with their community.
Although it is not a formal support service, the practice of participating in conversations and the companionship of a Support Worker can alleviate feelings of isolation or loneliness.
The local team at each Just Better Care is diverse and integral to the transition from hospital to home for individuals with disabilities. Their comprehensive role encompasses managing medical care, assisting with mobility and physical therapy, adapting the home environment, providing personal care, facilitating daily activities, offering emotional support, and coordinating with healthcare providers.
Through their dedicated efforts, they help individuals adjust to home life with confidence and dignity, significantly enhancing their overall quality of life. If you, or someone you know, would benefit from Post Hospital Support from Just Better Care contact your local office.
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