When an older person has been in hospital, they may not be able to manage at home straight away. Planning for discharge early can make the move home, or to a care home, go more smoothly.

Planning starts early

Hospital staff should talk to the patient and their family about what support will be needed after discharge. Ask who is coordinating the discharge and keep in touch with them.

Short-term support

Many people get a period of short-term support after leaving hospital, to help them recover and regain independence. This is sometimes called reablement or intermediate care. It can be provided at home or in a care setting. In England, intermediate care and reablement are free for up to six weeks.

Assessment after discharge

Longer-term care needs are often assessed after the person has left hospital and had time to recover, rather than on the ward. This is sometimes called “discharge to assess”.

If a care home is being considered

A move to a care home is a big decision and should not be rushed if it can be avoided. A short stay in a care home while the person recovers can give time to decide. The person, and their family, should be involved in the decision. If the person lacks capacity, the decision must be made in their best interests.

NHS continuing healthcare

If someone has very high health needs, ask whether they should be assessed for NHS continuing healthcare.

Questions to ask the hospital

What care will the person need, and for how long?
Who will provide it, and when will it start?
Will there be an assessment of longer-term needs?
Who should we contact if there is a problem after discharge?

Cedar House

If you are looking for a care home in Stanford-le-Hope after a hospital stay, call Cedar House on 01375 768505 to ask about rooms. Read about residential care and respite stays.

Leaving hospital: arranging care afterwards