When a Parent is Hospitalized

We are never prepared to think about the time when our loved one becomes ill and needs to be hospitalized. It may be a 4 hour ER visit then home or an admission for a few days. Physical function could be impacted and there tends to be little time to set things up to deal with that situation.

If there may be some medical issues following a hospitalization, the discharging MD may order home health services if it meets the criteria to be homebound.

1. You need the help of another person or medical equipment such as crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair to leave your home, or your doctor believes that your health or illness could get worse if you leave your home
2. And, it is difficult for you to leave your home and you typically cannot do so

If there is an admission with a qualifying stay, your loved one may qualify for a skilled nursing facility for further follow up. The requirements to get an SNF stay is linked here.

Should they need an SNF stay, following their discharge, then can be referred to home health services for further care and support with the transition home.

Note that Medicare does not cover custodial care costs. Custodial care is having a caregiver come in to assist with housekeeping and some self care tasks. This type of care typically comes from private home care agencies and requires and assessment prior to getting a caregiver.

Some people may have long term care policies that do cover custodial care needs, however they must qualify for it. They must need some degree of self care help in 2 areas and must complete a wait period where care is paid for privately for usually anywhere from 0-90 days or longer depending on the policy. There may also be specifics on what type of care is covered and limitations. General details on long term care policies are linked here.

This is a generalized summary of some of the info to know regarding possible issues that may arise when a parent or loved one gets hospitalized. I provide this info to help give you a guide on how to navigate the process to advocate for the best possible care.