Caregiver Support

How to Help Your Loved One’s Recovery

We encourage patients to pick a key person to support them during their hospital stay. This person can ask questions the patient might not think of and take notes. If the patient becomes unable to make or communicate healthcare decisions, the support person can help make sure they get the care they would want.

Whether you are that primary support person or just one of many people caring for and supporting your loved one, you can play an important role in making sure they get the safest

and best care.

What to Know Before You Leave

As a caregiver, you can help ensure the best outcomes for your loved one after their hospital stay by finding out how you can help with:

• Arranging appointments for follow-up medical care and advocating for the patient at those appointments
• Changes in your loved one’s daily routine and ability to complete regular tasks
• New medical equipment
• New medications — for example, picking them up from the pharmacy and making sure your loved one takes the right ones at the right time
• Watching for side effects and knowing who to contact for questions or follow-up care if your loved one’s condition gets worse