Here's some useful information from our care managers. If you want to print out one of the articles or send it to a friend, there is a link after each.

Do you wonder what is happening?

It can be very hard to know when someone close to you is struggling with memory loss. They may just seem a bit more forgetful or be able to almost explain their reasons for forgetting. There are ways to diagnose why people forget and treatment may be possible.
If you worry about someone with memory problems, check the ones below that apply:

( ) Unopened mail and bills piling up
( ) Uneaten or spoiled food; limited food on hand
( ) Recent falls
( ) Scorched pots
( ) Missed appointments
( ) Repeated calling at odd hours or on the same subject
( ) Forgetting to take, taking too much, or mixing up medications
( ) Social withdrawal
( ) Depleting financial resources
( ) Increasing mistrust of family or friends
( ) Overdependence on "helpful" strangers
( ) Not behaving like "themselves"
( ) Problems following directions
( ) Unable to recall participating in recent events or meetings
( ) Getting lost when driving to previously familiar locations
( ) Changes in grooming or hygiene

If you have noticed any of these changes in behavior or living conditions, in someone you know, feel free to contact us.

Download this article: wonder.pdf

What happens after a hospital stay?

You may:

1) Go home with or without care. If you need further care at home, it may be:

2) Go into a Transitional Care Center (TCC) - Medicare benefit

• Short term stay for people needing intensive rehabilitation before returning home. Must be ordered by your doctor. Can be within hospital setting or free standing - rehabilitative skilled nursing facility
• Emphasis on strength to go home (2 days - 2 weeks)

3) Go into a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) - Also called a "nursing home".

• Medicare benefit short term - 100 days but in reality closer to 21 days. Once a person reaches their potential (based on staff evaluation), Medicare no longer pays and person is now considered "custodial care". Payment is private pay, Medi-Cal or return home as able. P/T, O/T & speech end but patient remains at same facility.

After certain procedures such as a hip replacement, serious stroke, the patient is automatically moved to a TCC or SNF for intense rehabilitation to maximize individual's ability to regain former abilities.

Download this article: hospsty.pdf