Have you ever had an elderly loved one admitted to the hospital for an operation, illness, or any severe injuries? If yes, you’ve most likely heard doctors discuss inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services for seniors. But what’s the distinction—inpatient vs. outpatient rehabilitation, and which should you go with? Today, you’ll understand the differences between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation.
What Is Inpatient Rehabilitation for Seniors?
Inpatient rehabilitation occurs at a senior rehabilitation center, assisted care, or skilled nursing home offering rehabilitation services. There are several benefits to going the inpatient approach. One of the most significant is that the patient has no responsibility for the work, and there are no home workouts or practice regimens to complete. Treatment options are also scheduled as frequently as the patient requires – even daily. Since the patient lives at the therapy facility, the overall experience is more cohesive and intensive.
Another benefit of inpatient therapy is that you don’t worry about transportation. Caregivers are relieved of the burden of coordinating schedules and determining who will drive Mom or Dad to whatever treatment appointment. Instead of being distracted with practicalities, family members have had more space to focus on supporting and comforting their loved ones.
The amenities provided by inpatient treatment are a third reason why families choose it. Their loved one gets access to healthy food, well-prepared snacks, and meals in addition to regular treatment programs and health follow-up. Household responsibilities such as cleaning and laundry are relieved of the patient’s shoulders. Caregivers can sleep well knowing their loved one is safe and protected thanks to 24-hour security and medical professionals.
What Is Outpatient Rehabilitation for Seniors?
A significant benefit of outpatient therapy for seniors is that the patient can return home. Some seniors prefer their own home, which gives them a sense of freedom. Outpatient therapy may be combined with at-home care, which may be the best alternative for these seniors.
Cost is another factor. There is no indication that outpatient rehabilitation clinic workers are somewhat less competent or committed than those who serve in inpatient institutions. Many families believe that while the level of care is the same, the money may be better spent elsewhere. That is a judgment that each family must individually make.
Choose Discovery Village At Southlake
Whether you choose inpatient or outpatient senior rehabilitation, keep in mind that your choice isn’t cast in stone. If you enroll your loved one in inpatient treatment and later discover that they need to return home, don’t hesitate to speak with the professionals and make the required preparations.
If outpatient therapy proves to be too much for you, contact a certified senior living that offers rehab services. What matters is that you assist your loved ones in getting back on their feet, no matter where they are. Discovery Village At Southlake takes pride in providing the highest level of care to its inhabitants. We are also one of just 36 senior living communities in the United States that provides SHINE® Memory Care, and we also offer an exceptional senior living lifestyle to our members.
