One moment they are fine; the next moment they are in the hospital, life forever changed.

We don’t anticipate the accidents that put us in the hospital. Yet when they happen, the results can be devastating.

And if the hospital stay involves your elderly parent, life can take unexpected turns even more quickly. They may no longer be able to care for themselves on a full time basis. You may instantly become a caregiver, without any prior warning.

Then comes the moment that changes everything. The nurse or social worker tells you your parent will be released in the next few hours. Now what?

Its easy to get overwhelmed and leave with a bunch of papers in one hand, and over abundance of questions that pop up immediately after you drive away. If your parent is in the process of being discharged, be prepared and ask this list of questions first.

About release:

• What date and time will my parent be discharged?

• What is the best way to transfer my parent back home? Will I need special help?

• What medications will be given before release? [Read more…]