KALINGA HOSPITAL Ltd. (KHL) is providing quality senior citizen care in a hospital setting requires a specialized approach that addresses the unique needs and concerns of elderly patients.
A dedicated Senior Citizen (Golden Generation) Helpline: 18005725000 officially inaugurated at KALINGA Hospital Ltd. (KHL) Bhubaneswar in August’2023. More than 100 Senior Citizens from different Senior Citizen associations in Bhubaneswar & neighbouring areas joined the inaugural ceremony.
Here are some key considerations and strategies for delivering effective senior citizen care in KHL:
- Geriatric Assessment:
Conduct comprehensive geriatric assessments to evaluate the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of each senior patient's health.
- Specialized Staff:
Dedicated desk with trained professionals having experience in caring for elderly patients.
- Patient-Centered Care:
Tailor care plans to meet the individual needs and preferences of each senior patient.
Involve patients and their families in decision-making processes.
- Medication Management:
Ensure proper medication management, including reviewing and reconciling medications to prevent adverse drug interactions.
- Nutritional Care:
Dietary requirements specific to elderly patients, including meal consistency, portion size, and hydration.
- Cognitive Support:
Support for patients with cognitive impairments, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
- Pain Management:
Pain management and ensure pain assessments are frequent and thorough.
- Social Engagement:
Encourage social interactions among senior patients through group activities, support groups, or access to mental health services.
- Family Involvement:
Encourage family involvement in care, decision-making, and emotional support.
- Communication Skills:
Train staff in effective communication with elderly patients, including active listening and empathy.
- Elder Abuse Prevention:
Protocols for identifying and reporting elder abuse or neglect, with staff training on recognizing signs of abuse.
- Patient Safety:
Implement safety measures such as bed alarms and handrails to prevent falls and injuries.
- Continuity of Care:
Smooth transition of care when seniors move from the hospital to other healthcare settings or home
- Geriatric-Friendly Environment:
Make physical adjustments to the hospital environment, including adequate lighting and clear signage.
- Patient Education:
Provide seniors and their families with education on managing chronic conditions, post-hospital care, and available support services.
Kalinga Hospital Ltd. (KHL) upgrading the service-line by taking a holistic and patient-centred approach to senior citizen care which can meet the unique needs of elderly patients and improve their overall quality of life during and after their hospital stay.