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A woman called asking for assistance in having her father released from a nursing home. Her father was admitted 45 days prior for rehabilitation after a stroke. It was the opinion of the nursing home that her father needed continuous care and should remain in the nursing home permanently. The director of the nursing home went to the extent to tell the daughter that they would see that Medicare did not pay for his initial 45 days of care if they took him home "against medical advice" (this is not ethical or legal). The nursing home further contacted county adult protective services to "advise" the daughter that they would be "supervising" the care she would provide her father if she moved him home.
The daughter felt intimidated and threatened by the director of the nursing home. During the 45 days her father was in the nursing home, his physical abilities declined because he was limited to use of a wheelchair. His daughter saw the continued decline and remembered the previous abilities of her father. She knew the care she could provide for him in her home and what care she needed to hire. She and her father discussed the matter and agreed upon what was best. They made the decision to move him home to live with her as soon as possible.
The father has been home for about thirty days. His daughter takes a "drill sergeant" stance regarding his care and rehabilitation. He receives assistance on the days that the daughter works including daily exercise (physical and mental), personal care and meals. He no longer uses a wheelchair and walks independently without a walker on occasion.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, it's important to discuss the realities of the situation with your family member. Health care providers offer support and recommendations. However you and the person for whom you provide care know best the commitment you can make regarding care and rehabilitation. Have confidence in your abilities to make the best decision for you and your family. Agree upon several alternatives and see what works best. You can always try another alternative if your first plan of action is not optimal.
Copyright 2011 Pamela D. Wilson, All Rights Reserved.
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