Recovering from an illness, injury, or surgery can be a challenging process, but for many, the prospect of continuing their recovery at home or in a non-hospital environment is far more comfortable and appealing. While hospitals provide essential care during the acute phase of illness or after a procedure, many people feel more at ease recovering in familiar surroundings where they can rest and heal at their own pace.
That said, recovering away from the hospital still requires careful planning and the right support. Fortunately, you are in the right place, as this article provides you with the top recommendations for a smooth and successful recovery away from the hospital.
- Create a Comfortable and Safe Recovery Environment
Your home (or wherever you plan to recover) needs to be adapted to meet your post-hospital care needs. A comfortable and safe environment is crucial for a smooth recovery, allowing you to focus on healing without the distractions or risks associated with inadequate accommodations.
Arrange a space that is as close to a bathroom as possible. If this space also means you can enjoy easy access to the kitchen, this is even better. For many, this might mean choosing a room on the ground floor if they have a bathroom downstairs. The other benefit is that it will minimise the need for stair climbing. If you have no space to set up downstairs and need to do so in a room upstairs, make sure to stock up on essential supplies before you return home to minimise how often you have to go up and down the stairs. This includes medications, medical equipment (such as bandages, wound care items, or mobility aids), and plenty of nutritious food and beverages.
No matter where you set up, remove any tripping hazards, such as rugs, electrical cords, or clutter in your recovery space. Ensure walkways are clear, and install grab bars or handrails in areas like the bathroom to provide additional stability if needed.
- Follow a Recovery Plan from Your Healthcare Provider
Before leaving the hospital, it’s essential to have a detailed recovery plan from your doctor or healthcare provider. This plan will guide your rehabilitation and ensure that you continue healing without complications. As part of this plan, you might need to take pills, attend physical therapy or follow-up appointments, and monitor your symptoms. If anything seems abnormal or concerning about your symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Don’t wait for a follow-up appointment.
- Enlist the Help of Family, Friends, or Professional Caregivers
Recovering at home can be difficult without the right support system. In many cases, family members or friends can provide invaluable help, whether it’s with meal preparation, transportation to appointments, or simply offering emotional support. However, if more extensive care is needed, you may also want to consider hiring a professional caregiver.
Depending on the nature of your recovery, you may need help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, managing household chores, or mobility. This is a lot for your family members to do on top of their busy lives already and can quickly lead to burnout if your recovery time is extensive. By using respite care, your relatives can take a break from all of this and come back to you feeling refreshed and ready to support you once again. Click here for more information on organising respite care.
- Prioritise Nutrition and Hydration
Eating a balanced diet is essential to recovery, as your body requires extra nutrients to repair tissues, rebuild strength, and maintain energy levels. Focus on foods that promote healing, such as chicken, fish, eggs, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, avocados, nuts, and olive oil. These nutrients are important for immune support, wound healing, and muscle recovery.
Dehydration can slow the healing process and contribute to feelings of fatigue and weakness. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and include hydrating foods such as soups, fruits, and vegetables in your diet.
Conclusion
Recovering away from the hospital can be a positive experience, allowing you to heal in a familiar and comfortable setting. However, it’s essential to have the right plan in place to ensure your recovery goes smoothly and is free of complications. Taking the steps above will not only support your physical recovery but also allow you to focus on regaining strength and independence at your own pace.
