As our loved ones get older, it’s more likely they’ll eventually need to deal with a hospital admission followed by a short-term stay in a post-acute rehabilitation facility. Planning ahead with a well-stocked go-bag filled with personal care items and things to make their stay more familiar is the best way to ensure their time away from home is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
What should go into the bag? What should you leave at home? Read on for everything you need to know to make a hospital go-bag that your loved one will appreciate and use.
Go-Bag Must-Haves
Some of the important items to include in the go-bag are:
- Personal care items
Toiletries, incontinence products, denture care supplies, eyedrops, nail clippers, and any necessary medical supplies like compression stockings or braces should be the first things that go into the bag. - Comfortable clothing
Loose-fitting clothing that is easy to put on and take off, like robes, pajamas, and non-slip socks or slippers. - Comfort items
Pack a small pillow, favorite blanket, body lotion, eye mask, and anything else that will help the patient be more comfortable. - Familiar items from home
Toss in a couple of familiar items like a stuffed animal, framed family photograph, handwritten note or Bible to provide comfort and a sense of familiarity in a new environment. - Entertainment and distractions
Since there will probably be quite a bit of downtime during your loved one’s recovery, include items that help them stay busy. Books, magazines, puzzles, games, and portable electronic devices (with chargers) to help pass the time and keep their minds engaged. - Important documents
Remember copies of important documents like insurance cards, advance directives, a list of current medications, and any known allergies. - Contact Information
Create a list of important contacts, including phone numbers of family members, close friends, and healthcare providers. - Snacks and beverages
Pack some non-perishable, easy-to-eat snacks and beverages that comply with any dietary restrictions. Hard candies, gum, cookies, and other favorite snacks will give your loved one comfort during their stay. - Labeling and organization
Be sure to clearly label the bag and its contents, and organize items for easy access. Since the bag may be stored in the closet for some time, note items with expiration dates so that you can easily change out that have expired when the go-bag is needed.
Items to Leave Out of the Go-Bag
Some things should not be included in your loved one’s go-bag, like:
- Cash
Money is too easy to pilfer to include in a go-bag. Stash that in a purse or wallet that can be kept out of sight. - Valuables
Leave nice jewelry and such at home to keep it safe. - Drinks
Large bottles and cans can get heavy, or even spill and cause a mess.
While a rehabilitation stay isn’t high on anyone’s list of fun things to do, it can be more comfortable with a little planning and a wisely packed go-bag. Hopefully, the stay will be healing and your loved one will be back to normal in no time.
Learn about the comprehensive rehabilitation program in our state-of-the-art therapy center at Diamondback Health and Memory Care.