Visiting a patient being care for at home can provide useful first hand information pertinent to the person's care. This can uncover problems which might otherwise go unnoticed.
Things to look for:
(1) suitability and safety of the home relative to the patient's functional status
(2) presence and attitudes of other persons living in the home
(3) proximity and attitudes of neighbors and relatives
(4) arrangements for emergency assistance
(5) nutritional habits and resources
(6) evidence of alcohol or drug abuse
(7) actual daily living skills
(8) hygiene and personal care habits
(9) safety and convenience modifications required
(10) access to stores and local community services
(11) medications in use
Issues:
(1) risk of injury
(2) risk of malnutrition
(3) ability to detect and respond to an emergency
(4) ability to function
(5) neglect and abuse
(6) adequacy of care
(7) need for assistance, modifications or intervention
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