To convalesce means to recover or recuperate. So, convalescent care for the elderly (sometimes referred to as rehabilitation care) involves care while recovering from an illness, injury or medical procedure. Unlike traditional senior care options, most of which are designed to provide long-term care, convalescent care is short-term care provided by a team of medical professionals. Convalescent care can be as short-term as a few days or as long as a few months, depending on the severity of the illness or injury and the required recovery time.
Benefits of Convalescent Care
Although some patients may choose to convalesce in their own homes, convalescent care facilities provide the medical care seniors need during their recovery time, as these facilities are staffed with in-house doctors, therapists and nurses. This type of care often gives elderly patients and their families peace of mind knowing that a staff of medical professionals is present to handle any emergency situation that arises. Families are also spared some of the burdens of caring for the patient or providing a safe environment during the recovery period. Convalescent care facilities are stocked with wheelchairs, oxygen, surgical dressings, hospital beds and all other necessary medical and surgical supplies, thereby eliminating the need for families and patients to acquire, learn to use, and maintain these items themselves.
Convalescent Care Services
Convalescent care provides a home-like environment during post-surgery recovery, injury recovery, and can even be used as a transitional form of care following stroke or a lengthy illness. It is designed to allow patients to transition to their independent lifestyle when they are strong and healthy enough to do so. In addition to providing basic medical services to patients, convalescent care can also provide the time needed to recuperate both physically and mentally. Care services at a convalescent facility might include:
- Counseling Services/Psychological Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Therapy
Learn more about our convalescent care options.
