As people age, it is not uncommon to have medical issues that require hospitalization followed by a stay in a short term rehab facility that can help a senior citizen recover, regain normal mobility, and resume a normal life. If you have a senior loved one who needs to spend time in a short term rehab facility, use the following tips to choose the best option for your family member:

Look for a Facility that Specializes in Short Term Rehab

If you're in a medium to large city, there are most likely many facilities that offer short term and long term rehabilitation services for seniors who are recovering from surgery, cardiac issues, strokes, or other medical problems. If possible, try to select a facility that specializes in short term rehab.

There can be a big difference in the process of rehabilitating a person with a short term problem that can be resolved in weeks compared to a patient that needs long term care. A facility that specializes in short term rehab is more likely to have the right staff on hand and the experience in assisting just patients who need shorter courses of rehabilitation.

Ensure Good Quality of Life

You should never choose a short term rehabilitation facility for your senior loved one based on a web site. Take the time to visit the facility and talk with the medical professionals and the staff who will be assisting your family member. It is also a good idea to tour the rooms where a patient stays; a short term stay may only be several weeks, but you are sure to want your loved one to be in a place that is comfortable as well as comforting. Don't forget to visit the common areas and living room to see what your senior loved one will experience while staying at the facility.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions

When your senior loved one is spending weeks or even a couple of months in short term rehab, it is important to ask questions to help ensure that you're selecting the right facility. You will need to ensure that the facility has the professionals employed to properly treat your loved one.

For example, if your senior loved one has broken a hip or becomes physically incapacitated, a facility with a strong staff of physical therapists is essential. In the event that your loved one has a stroke and has difficulty speaking, an experienced speech therapist is important. Make sure the short term rehab facility you choose for your senior loved one has the right specialists to help them. For more information, contact local professionals like Valley View Retirement Community.

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