When Is Someone Considered Homebound?
Homebound status is determined by an observed need for assistance from another person, or for the use of medical equipment in order to leave home, and when leaving home taxes the patient, making it difficult to do so. A physician’s order is required to support homebound status.
When someone is considered homebound, certified home care may be recommended. In this case, our CorsoCare Home Health professionals work with a patient’s current healthcare providers to ensure appropriate disease and therapy management for the short- or long-term, under the supervision of a primary care physician.
Factors that may contribute to homebound status include:
- Recent hospitalization or rehab stay
- Recent fall
- New diagnosis or condition
- Change in medication
- Increase in observable weakness
- Transition to a new environment
- Wound care
- New or increased reports of pain or discomfort
- Bruises, cuts and/or contusions
- Increased calls for assistance
- Difficulty with mobility
- Difficulty with chewing or speaking
- Change in mental status
- Change in living situation or difficult family support
