Discharge instructions often cover medications, appointments, equipment, activity limits, diet, warning signs, and several phone numbers. Ask questions before leaving, and write down who will handle each task at home.
Before the person leaves
- Ask for written discharge instructions in clear language.
- Review the medication list and ask what changed, stopped, or started.
- Confirm follow-up appointments and who will provide transportation.
- Make sure ordered equipment and supplies will be available.
- Ask which symptoms require a routine call, a same-day call, or emergency help.
- Confirm whether home health, therapy, nursing, or personal care has been arranged.
Prepare the home
Think about how the person will enter the home, reach the bathroom, sleep safely, prepare food, and move through the main living areas. Remove clutter and loose rugs. Improve lighting. Place frequently used items within easy reach.
If the person now needs help with transfers, toileting, stairs, or medical equipment, ask the care team to show the family the correct method before discharge.
Keep the medication list, discharge instructions, appointment schedule, provider numbers, and care notes together. Make sure the people providing care know where to find them.
The first 24 hours
- Settle the person into a safe sleeping and toileting routine.
- Obtain medications and supplies.
- Follow the written plan for meals, fluids, activity, and rest.
- Record new symptoms, pain, confusion, mobility, intake, and other changes the care team asked you to watch.
- Confirm that scheduled services and appointments are still in place.
The next two to three days
Watch whether the plan works in real life. Can the person get to the bathroom safely? Are meals being prepared? Is the medication routine clear? Is the family sleeping? Are new symptoms being reported to the right person?
If the plan depends on one exhausted family member, it may not be a stable plan. Add support early enough to prevent confusion, missed care, or caregiver burnout.
Know who is responsible
Home health, private-duty nursing, non-medical home care, outpatient therapy, and family support have different roles. Ask each provider what they will do, when they will come, and whom to call between visits.
A coordinated plan gives the older adult a safer transition and gives the family fewer unanswered questions.
This article offers general education and does not replace medical advice, an assessment, or an emergency response. Follow the instructions of your healthcare team. Call 911 for an emergency.