Outstanding Care in Action: A Holistic Approach to Recovery

Prolonged hospital admissions can have a profound impact not only on physical health but also on emotional wellbeing, confidence, and motivation. The importance of emotional wellbeing in reablement and recovery is increasingly recognised in outstanding care, which goes beyond clinical treatment, focusing equally on emotional connection, dignity, and person-led support.

Janet was admitted to hospital following an acute physical decline and remained there for over eight weeks. Prior to admission, she had been living independently at Chestnut Manor Care Home, mobilising with assistance and managing her daily activities, including eating and personal care. However, during her extended hospital stay, Janet experienced a significant deterioration in her physical condition. She became bed bound and was no longer able to mobilise or eat independently.

Emotional Decline During Hospital Admission

Alongside her physical challenges, Janet also experienced a marked emotional and psychological decline. She expressed feelings of hopelessness and began to believe she would not return to Chestnut Manor Care Home.

Her mood deteriorated, and she disengaged from rehabilitation efforts, which further impacted her recovery trajectory. This stage of her journey highlighted a critical truth in care delivery: emotional wellbeing is deeply interconnected with physical recovery.

A Person-Led Intervention That Made a Difference

Recognising the importance of maintaining emotional connection and identity, the team at Chestnut Manor arranged for Michelle, her Care Practitioner to visit Janet in hospital. During the visit, Michelle facilitated a video call between Janet and her fellow residents at the care home. This simple but meaningful intervention allowed Janet to reconnect with her community, her familiar relationships, and her sense of belonging. The impact was immediate and significant. Janet’s mood visibly lifted, and she became more engaged and responsive following the interaction.

A Noticeable Improvement in Mood and Motivation

The following day, hospital staff and Janet’s brother contacted Chestnut Manor to report a clear improvement in her emotional wellbeing. They noted that the visit and video call had “made a real difference” to her outlook and motivation. This feedback reinforced the importance of emotional continuity during hospital stays, particularly for individuals at risk of isolation and disengagement. Janet was visited again by care home staff during her admission, further strengthening her sense of support, familiarity, and reassurance.

Recovery Through Integrated MDT and Emotional Support

With continued multidisciplinary team (MDT) input and consistent emotional encouragement, Janet’s condition gradually stabilised.

Over time, she began to regain strength and motivation, eventually reaching a point where she was well enough to be discharged back to Chestnut Manor.

Life After Hospital: Rebuilding Confidence and Independence

Since returning to the care home, Janet has continued her recovery journey with ongoing support from the care team. The focus has been on re-building physical strength and mobility, re-storing confidence in daily activities, encouraging independence wherever possible and maintaining emotional wellbeing and social connection.

Janet’s journey highlights the life-changing impact of integrating emotional support with clinical care. The proactive involvement of care home staff played a pivotal role in restoring her motivation, improving her mood, and ultimately supporting her recovery.

At Westgate Healthcare, we believe outstanding care is about empowering residents to continue being themselves, maintaining independence wherever possible, and ensuring every individual feels valued, connected, and at home.

If you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, we would love to show you around. Come and experience first-hand what makes Chestnut Manor Care Home such a special place to live.

click here for more details or to contact Chestnut Manor Care Home