Going To The Hospital

A hospital stay can be particularly upsetting for older adults – especially if they have Alzheimer's disease or other memory disorders.

Your relative will be away from familiar surroundings. He or she may have a roommate. Hospital food is different from home cooking. Hospitals are noisy places. Patients often have a hard time sleeping. Nurses, doctors, and other staff come and go at all hours. To top it off – hospital patients don't feel well. If your older relative needs to go to the hospital for treatment, tests, or surgery, planning ahead can make the experience less upsetting for both of you.

WHAT TO BRING

• Nightclothes, bathrobe, slippers or socks.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, comb and brush, shaving gear.
• A list of prescription or non-prescription medications.
• Glasses, hearing aids, dentures.
• Health insurance information.
• A small amount of money for newspapers or magazines.
• A list of allergies to food or medications.
• Books, magazines, newspapers.
• A list of emergency contacts.

WHAT TO LEAVE HOME

• Jewelry (including wedding rings and earrings)
• Watches.
• Cash, credit cards, checkbooks
• Hair dryers, electric shavers
• Cell phone
• Food or beverages.

ADJUSTING TO HOSPITAL ROUTINES

Older people may become confused or disoriented while they are hospitalized especially if they have Alzheimer's disease or other memory disorders. Even if they don't have a memory condition older patients may have trouble remembering or paying attention in unfamiliar surroundings. Sleep or pain medications often cause confusion even if your relative does not have a memory problem. He or she will improve once he or she stops taking the medication. Discuss your concerns with the nurse or doctor. Older adults can quickly become weak from inactivity and lose the ability to walk to the bathroom, get dressed or manage other tasks. They are also more likely to fall in unfamiliar surroundings. Encourage your relative to get up and move around if the doctor approves.

MAKING HOSPITAL STAYS MORE PLEASANT

Family members can comfort older patients better than anyone so visit as often as possible. Bring family photos, a favorite afghan, even a teddy bear or balloons to make the hospital room more homelike. Just sitting quietly with your relative will make him or her feel better. Stop by at mealtimes if possible. Companionship always improves the appetite and hospital staff don't always have time to help patients eat. If the hospital menu is unappealing to your relative ask the doctor or nurse if you can bring favorite foods from home.

GOING HOME

Caring for an ill older person after a stay in a hospital can be challenging. Hospital discharge planners help you make arrangements for managing your relative's care after he or she leaves the hospital. Discharge planners help families find home care services, medical equipment, or arrange for nursing home or rehabilitation care. Consult the discharge planner soon after your relative is admitted to the hospital so you can start planning for your relative's return home. A stay in the hospital – even a short one – is a strange and upsetting experience for older adults. As a concerned friend or relative you can reduce your relative's anxiety and make sure he or she gets the best possible care in the hospital and afterwards.