It wasn’t really a “Good” Friday when I was discharged from hospital with the realization that I couldn’t go home. I had to go to my parents’ environment and care.
After being in the hospital routine for a few weeks, it was a shock going back into my parents’ house. From only being able to sit in bed and do short walks around the ward, I suddenly had to do a lot more.
This new lifestyle was exhausting – even with the support of my parents doing a lot for me. But what was even more daunting was the thought of going back to my own house.
Simple tasks like loading the dishwasher, making dinner and walking the dog were overwhelming. My parents are amazing with these tasks which has definitely made the transition easier.
But it has really made me question – “What happens when I can’t be discharged to my parents’ house?”
My walking frame can’t fit down my hallway so if I can’t walk unaided, I can’t be safely in my home. My unit is also too small to store a lot of equipment that I require. What’s more, the thought of falling and having no one around to assist me is terrifying!
Being discharged from hospital and knowing that my parents’ house is an option is comforting. However, it has been a catalyst in prompting me to consider what I really need to consider for my future care and what that support needs to look like. It’s times like this when I really need to be proactive rather than reactive about my care.
When I’m feeling weak and vulnerable, what support do I have close by that I know I can rely on in those times without being a burden?
This has spurred me to begin looking into other more suitable properties. Places that will be able to accommodate my disability, support and equipment should I need more in the future. I’m also thinking of what other support networks I can put in place now to help lessen the future burden on my existing support workers, friends and family.
I worry a lot about my close family and friends and the toll my disability has on them. But I know there’s no point in just worrying about it without taking action.
“Where the concentration goes the energy flows” I inwardly chant and remind myself.
How can you be proactive about your future care plan when your situation changes? What can you put in place today that helps you and others later down the line?