Short-term rehab services provide older adults with the necessary care and support to recover from serious illnesses, surgeries, or injuries like joint replacement, stroke, or heart surgery. This type of rehabilitation can serve to help adults recover while also introducing them to life at a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). Whether you’re receiving short-term rehab services in a dedicated center or as part of a broader community, the experience focuses on restoring independence and elevating overall well-being.
Rehabilitation Service Options
When it comes to recovery, short-term rehab for adults offers two main service options: outpatient rehabilitation and inpatient rehabilitation. Medical professionals work with seniors to customize the course of treatment based on mobility, medical requirements, and the extent of care needed after a hospital stay.
Outpatient Rehabilitation
Outpatient rehabilitation is ideal for individuals who are mobile and can travel for rehabilitation services. This option involves regular visits to a specified location for scheduled therapy sessions. Specialized equipment and healthcare professionals are on-site to ensure safety and optimal care.
Inpatient Rehabilitation
When a patient’s condition requires them to receive continual monitoring after a hospital stay, they may be moved to an extended-stay rehab center. In this setting, they’ll receive daily scheduled rehabilitation with skilled supervision. They will likely also be regularly visited by a doctor.
What to Expect During Your Stay in Short-Term Rehab
A stay in short-term rehab is designed to offer a comprehensive recovery experience. The end goal is to help you return to the life you love—whether that means perfecting your golf swing, painting your next masterpiece, or serving others as a volunteer.
Here’s what you can expect during your stay:
- A Collaborative Care Plan. A personalized rehab plan will be created with input from you, your loved ones, and a team member from the rehabilitation center. With this approach, your specific needs are met, from physical therapy to emotional wellness support.
- On-Site Medical Professionals. You’ll benefit from having on-site registered healthcare professionals, including a psychiatrist who works with your physician and therapy team to monitor your progress.
- Therapeutic Services. Joint replacement therapy, pain management, and antibiotic treatments are common in short-term rehab facilities to support a comprehensive approach to healing.
- Lifestyle Support. To ensure comfort and relaxation during your stay, services such as laundry, housekeeping, salon services, and chef-prepared meals are typically available.
- Engaging Programs. Complete recovery also includes engaging lifestyle programs to support your overall well-being during your rehabilitation.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Short-Term Rehab Center
Choosing the right short-term rehab services is crucial to any successful recovery plan. Here are some questions to ask to ensure a rehab center meets your needs:
- Is my insurance accepted, and do I need to be pre-certified to ensure coverage?
- What specialized care is available? (e.g., wound care, cardiovascular care, orthopedic care, etc.)
- How much therapy will I receive, and will it be in-patient or outpatient?
- Who determines the care plan?
- Who will be part of my care team? (e.g., nurses, physicians, social workers, occupational therapists, a chaplain, etc.)
- What should I bring with me, and what will be provided at no extra charge?
- If care is inpatient, will I have a private or semi-private room?
- What is the nurse- or therapist-to-patient ratio?
- Is there a patient care coordinator?
- What happens after discharge?
Discharge Planning: What to Expect
As you near the end of your short-term rehab stay, discharge planning becomes essential to ensure a smooth transition back home. A well-coordinated plan will help you continue your recovery and avoid any setbacks. This includes everything from understanding your prognosis to preparing your home for a safe return.
Consider the following parts of the ongoing plan:
- Prognosis and Recovery Expectations. Discuss your expected recovery timeline with your care team, and be aware of any warning signs to monitor after you leave the facility.
- Continued Care. Determine if you’ll need ongoing outpatient therapy or in-home care, and clarify how these services will be arranged.
- Assistive Devices and Home Safety. Find out if you’ll need equipment like a cane or walker and whether an occupational therapist will assess your home for necessary adaptations.
- Insurance Coverage. Confirm what your insurance covers for post-rehab services and any necessary equipment or home modifications.
Explore Rehabilitation Services at Beacon Hill
At Beacon Hill, we are proud to provide award-winning short-term rehab services. Our team members are committed to helping you recover fully, with personalized care plans that address your physical and emotional needs. Our on-site healthcare professionals, tailored diet plans, and comprehensive therapy options make us a trusted choice for those seeking rehabilitation services in Chicago, IL. You don’t need to be a resident to access our services—direct admissions are available.
While you’re here, you’ll also have the opportunity to experience the benefits of a Life Care community, and how it can make recovery a positive and enriching experience.
Discover the benefits of Beacon Hill by contacting us today to learn more about our rehabilitation services.
