Helping Older People Home: Why Getting Discharged Promptly with the Right Support Matters

When an older person is admitted to hospital, it’s usually because something unexpected has happened — a fall, an illness, or a sudden change in health. Hospitals are essential in those moments, offering expert care, close monitoring, and treatment. But once the immediate medical need has been addressed, hospital is not always the best place to stay.

In fact, staying too long in hospital can sometimes cause new problems, especially for older people.

The Risks of a Long Hospital Stay

Being in hospital for longer than necessary can lead to:

• Loss of strength and mobility from time spent in bed (called “deconditioning”)

• Confusion or delirium, especially in unfamiliar surroundings or for those with memory difficulties

• Increased risk of infections or pressure sores

• Decline in confidence or mood, from being away from home and routine

  
  

The truth is, the longer someone stays, the harder it can be to return to their previous level of independence. That’s why helping people return home promptly but safely is so important.

Why Home is the Best Place to Heal

Home is where people feel most like themselves. There’s familiarity, comfort, and control — from making a cup of tea in your own kitchen to sleeping in your own bed. Even small routines can restore a person’s sense of purpose, helping them feel useful, valued, and more like “me again.”

With the right support, being at home can be not just possible, but better.

The Goal: Safe, Supported, and Meaningful

Helping someone leave hospital isn’t about rushing — it’s about reclaiming independence, protecting wellbeing, and ensuring no one stays longer than they need to. With thoughtful planning and the right referrals, home becomes a place of healing, confidence, and dignity once more. Because going home isn’t just about getting someone through the door, it’s about helping them feel like themselves again.

Of course, when an older relative is in hospital, it’s natural to worry, especially if you’re not nearby. Discharge plans and available services can vary from one area to another, and it’s not always clear what’s possible or where to turn for advice. That’s where a little extra support can make a big difference.

While hospitals will speak directly with next of kin about medical decisions, we at Plan with Care and our sister company, Thrive Homecare, are here to offer a listening ear and practical guidance for families navigating these situations. Covering all of East Kent, we can provide care assessments and arrange the right support at home, whether for a short recovery period or longer-term care. Our role is to help families feel a little less alone, promoting wellbeing and offering reassurance that their loved one will have the best care, attention, and encouragement they need to feel safe, supported, and comfortable at home.

If you’d like to find out more about how we can help in East Kent, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at info@planwithcare.co.uk. We’re always happy to have a friendly, no-obligation chat.