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After a Fall: How to Decide Whether Dad Can Go Home or Needs Assisted Living

A fall can change everything overnight. One day Dad is managing fine. The next, he’s in the hospital and the discharge planner is asking where he’ll go. Here’s how to think it through. Your MoveMyMom Advisor can help you plan the next step, and our help is always at no cost to families.

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Talk to the Care Team

Before discharge, ask the hospital or rehab team:

  • Can Dad safely go home?
  • Will he need help with bathing, dressing, or getting around?
  • Does he need physical therapy?
  • What’s his risk of falling again?

Look at the House

  • Are there stairs Dad can’t manage?
  • Is the bathroom safe?
  • Is there someone to check on him daily?
  • Can he get to the kitchen and bathroom on his own?

Consider the Options

  • Home with help: home care aides, grab bars, a medical alert device
  • Short-term rehab: if Dad needs therapy before deciding
  • Assisted living: if Dad needs daily help and the house isn’t safe
  • Memory care: if confusion or memory loss played a role

When Time Is Short

Discharge dates often come with little warning. If Dad’s next step has to happen soon, call your MoveMyMom Advisor at 877-575-9900. We can connect you with a senior living advisor and help line up movers and other pros.

Questions for the Discharge Planner

  • When exactly is Dad being discharged?
  • What level of care does the team recommend?
  • Are there communities that can take him on short notice?

Making the House Safer, If He Goes Home

  • Grab bars in the bathroom and a shower chair
  • Better lighting, especially at night
  • Removing throw rugs and clutter
  • A medical alert device he’ll actually wear

Signs Home Isn't Enough

If Dad has fallen more than once, can’t get up without help, is confused about medications, or lives alone with no one checking daily, assisted living may be the safer choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on openings, paperwork, and Dad’s medical exam. Sometimes it can happen within days, but it often takes longer.

Sometimes, if his doctors and therapists say it’s safe. Ask the discharge planner what kind of help he’ll need at home, and plan from there.

Take the First Step Today

Don’t do it all alone. Help is here. Your advisor is one call away: 877-575-9900. Or fill out the short form.

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