How to Cope With a Hospital Stay?

A Roadmap for Older Adults

Hospitalizations can be overwhelming, but with a little planning and the right support, you can navigate your stay with greater confidence and control. This article provides a step-by-step guide to help older adults prepare for a hospital visit, communicate effectively with their care team, and ensure their needs are met throughout their stay.

1. Define Your Goals

Just like a road trip, a hospital stay should have clear objectives. Before your visit, ask yourself:

• What do I hope to achieve during this hospitalization?

• How does this hospitalization fit into my overall health goals?

Having specific goals, both big and small, can help you stay focused and guide your conversations with your medical team.

2. Prepare for the Unexpected

While most hospitalizations are unplanned, there are steps you can take to be prepared:

• Advance Care Planning: Complete an advance directive and a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) form to ensure your wishes are respected if you become unable to communicate them yourself.

• Gather Important Documents: Keep a folder with your medical history, insurance information, and medication list readily accessible.

• Pack a Small Bag: If possible, pack a small bag with essentials like comfortable clothes, toiletries, and reading material.

3. Communicate Effectively

Clear communication with your care team is crucial for a successful hospital stay:

• Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask questions about your diagnosis, treatment plan, and expected outcomes.

• Express Your Needs: Clearly communicate your needs and preferences, including pain management, dietary restrictions, and mobility assistance.

• Involve Your Support System: Designate a family member or friend as your advocate to help communicate your needs and ensure your wishes are respected.

4. Utilize Family Meetings

Family meetings can be invaluable for clarifying information, addressing concerns, and making decisions about your care:

• Request a Meeting: If you feel overwhelmed or have unanswered questions, request a family meeting with your medical team.

• Bring Your Support System: Invite family members or friends who can provide support and advocate for your needs.

• Clarify Your Goals: Use the meeting to reiterate your goals for your hospital stay and ensure everyone is on the same page.

5. Lean on Your Support Network

Your family and friends can be your greatest allies during a hospital stay:

• Accept Help: Don't be afraid to ask for help with tasks, errands, or emotional support.

• Designate an Advocate: Choose a trusted person to be your primary advocate, especially during key transition points like admission and discharge.

• Stay Connected: Maintain social connections to combat loneliness and boost your spirits.

6. Plan for Discharge

Discharge planning is an important part of your hospital stay:

• Ask Questions: Discuss your discharge plan with your care team, including medications, follow-up appointments, and any necessary home healthcare services.

• Prepare Your Home: Make sure your home is safe and accessible before you return.

• Follow Instructions: Carefully follow your discharge instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Take Control of Your Hospital Experience

While hospitalizations can be challenging, you can take proactive steps to ensure your needs are met and your voice is heard. By planning ahead, communicating effectively, and leaning on your support network, you can navigate your hospital stay with greater confidence and achieve a positive outcome.