Hospital Discharge and Getting Care at Home

Before leaving hospital, ask what care, equipment, medication support or follow-up is planned. Confirm who is responsible for arranging each part and whether anything is temporary or ongoing.

Write down names, phone numbers and what should happen on the first day home.

Think about stairs, bathing, meals, medication, confusion, mobility and whether someone can respond if there is a problem. If the home is not safe, say so clearly rather than hoping it will be fine.

Adult social care, reablement or community equipment services may be able to help, but only if the need is explained accurately.

If a family member will provide significant help after discharge, consider carers support as well as support for the older person. Hospital discharge can be the moment a temporary helping role becomes longer term.

Families often focus on the discharge day, but the first week matters more. Ask who will help with meals, washing, medication, night-time worries, equipment, follow-up appointments and getting help if the plan breaks down.

If something feels unsafe once the person is home, contact the discharge team, GP, adult social care or urgent services as appropriate. Do not wait for a scheduled review if the situation has changed quickly.