Coming home from hospital can be made much easier with some help. Some people have a good family network or able partner while others need help from outside the family. Whatever type of help you need, ask for it so you can concentrate more on your recovery and less about the chores.
Household Chores
When you return from the hospital, there can be plenty of washing and ongoing household jobs that need doing. Hanging out a load of washing can be more strenuous than you think after an operation or stay in hospital. If you don’t have a friend or family member who can help with the washing and vacuuming, then look for a cleaner to come in. It may be less stressful to do your research or ask for recommendations for a cleaner before you go into hospital.
Going Out
If you can’t drive or you aren’t mobile enough to go out after a hospital stay, look at mobile services that can help you. Try ordering your groceries online and have them delivered to your door. Food preparation can be difficult and tiring after hospital so ask if there is a company that delivers ready made meals to your area.
If you would like some books to read, call your local library to ask if they have a mobile library you can use. If not, see if you can look online for some books to reserve then ask a friend to collect them for you.
Visiting the hairdresser may not be possible for a while so organise a mobile hairdresser to come to your house. A haircut or colour can make you feel much better.
Sometimes an aid can assist you in getting out and about. The hospital or chemist may hire out walkers, crutches or wheelchairs that you can use for as long as you need. Even a walking stick might give you the confidence to leave the house and go to the shops once you are well enough.
Who can Help
If you come home from hospital and realised you can’t do it all, reach out for help. Either tell a family member you need help to organise home services or call your local council. They may be able to put you in contact with different groups that can help with gardening or cleaning. Ask if you are eligible for any rebates or assistance if you can’t afford the services you need.
If you need help with showering or wound dressings at home, ask your doctor for advice on who to contact to organise in-home care services.
HIF Ambulance Cover
We hope you will never need to call an ambulance, but if you do you will want the fees covered. Check out HIF’s Ambulance Cover for details of benefits in your state.