Introduction

Disclaimer:  The information in the Transitions in Adult Care section is only a guide and not meant to replace medical, legal, financial, or therapeutic advice. You should consult a doctor, lawyer, financial advisor, or counsellor for professional services.

Changes in Care Requirements are Unique

As a family or friend caregiver, changes from one level of care to another can become a regular part of your life. The changes to someone you are looking after may be subtle, like a gradual loss of interest in social activities. An injury or stroke can be a more sudden change. When we see these changes, we can expect that the level of care and the overall plan may need to change as well.

If the change is sudden, maybe because of an illness or accident, you should leave the hospital with a care plan that tells you what to expect and how to respond to what might be a new set of needs. If the changes are slower and happen over time, that can sometimes be harder to deal with.

Ideally, with the right supports in place, your loved one can stay safely at home for as long as possible. The goal is to have people get care at home and in their communities where decisions about their care can be made with input from everyone involved. The benefit to your loved one is that they can live in familiar surroundings and keep their health, independence, and well-being for longer. There is also less risk that they will get sick with the kinds of illnesses people sometimes get when they’re in hospital.

Please be aware that the information in these sections doesn’t focus on changes that can result from specific physical or mental health conditions. We want the information to be helpful to people in as many caregiving situations as possible. 

One of the most important things you can do for your care recipient is to take care of your own health, both mental and physical.  Taking time for yourself and making sure you stay well is not selfish – it is essential!