Planning support after a fall or hospital stay

Start with the health team

If someone needs immediate medical attention, contact local emergency services. This guide is about organising ongoing support, not treating an injury or deciding whether someone is medically ready to go home.

Ask the treating team who is coordinating the next stage of care. Explain what help is available at home and any tasks the person or caregiver cannot manage.

Include the older person in the conversation and write down their preferences.

Questions before leaving care

What written instructions should we follow?
What changes should prompt us to seek help, and who should we contact?
Can someone explain the current medicines list and any changes?
What help, equipment or training is needed?
Who will arrange services, and when will they begin?
What follow-up appointments are needed?
What costs or coverage should we confirm?

Ask the team to explain anything unclear. Raise concerns about gaps in support before discharge.

United States resource: Medicare’s discharge planning checklist (PDF).

Write a practical support plan

Make a short list of tasks, the person responsible, the agreed start date and a contact number. Check that each person or service has agreed to their role.

Keep the plan accessible to the people involved, with the older person’s agreement. If arrangements change, contact the responsible health team or service to review the plan.

Australia pathway • United States pathway • Care at home • Caregiver help

Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2025, December). Your discharge planning checklist (Publication No. 11376).

Updated September 2026 • Australia and United States • General planning information; follow the treating team’s individual advice.