Discharge day from a hospital or short-term rehabilitation marks real progress in recovery. It’s a time for celebration, but it can also be a challenging time for residents as they try to transition back to a normal home life. Daily routines like cooking a meal, getting dressed, or even taking a shower can raise new concerns when round-the-clock support is no longer right outside the door.
At Delmar Gardens, we understand how important it is to make this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. That’s why we created our Ready, Set, Go Home program—designed to give rehab graduates the chance to live independently in a beautifully furnished apartment in our independent living villa before officially returning home.
Why Transitioning from Rehab to Home Can Be Difficult
Rehabilitation provides structure, routine, and constant support—all of which can disappear the moment someone returns home. Without that safety net, even familiar tasks can feel unfamiliar or intimidating.
Simple daily activities like cooking, bathing, or getting dressed often highlight how much strength or balance is still being regained. For some, the fear of falling or making a mistake overshadows the progress they’ve worked so hard to achieve. Families, too, may feel uneasy, wondering if their loved one is truly prepared to live independently again.
That’s why having a chance to practice these routines in a realistic, but supportive environment is so valuable. It bridges the gap between therapy and real life, ensuring the transition home isn’t rushed but instead approached with confidence and peace of mind.
How Our “Ready, Set, Go Home” Program Can Help
The Ready, Set, Go Home program was created with one goal in mind: to make the transition from short-term rehab to home life smoother, safer, and less stressful. Tailored specifically for rehabilitation graduates, the program is introduced early during discharge planning so that residents and families know what support is available before the big transition day arrives.
Instead of moving directly home, participants enjoy a short stay in one of our independent living settings. Here, they can practice everyday routines like cooking, dressing, or showering—with therapists close by to offer guidance if needed. This unique approach provides a “trial run” of life at home, allowing residents to build confidence in their abilities while still having a safety net nearby.
What Daily Life Looks Like in the Program
During their stay, residents have the opportunity to practice their daily routines. This includes essential activities like using the bathroom, cooking meals, getting dressed, and showering. These tasks may feel simple in theory, but can present real challenges after rehab, especially if complications arise.
Certified physical and occupational therapists are always nearby, ready to provide encouragement, adjust techniques, or step in if assistance is needed. This balance of independence with professional support helps residents build confidence while still knowing help is within reach.
In addition, participants enjoy the same amenities and services offered through our Be Our Guest program, such as chef-prepared meals, social activities, and wellness opportunities. And, because safety is a top priority, each apartment is equipped with emergency call systems and supported by caring staff around the clock.
Benefits of the Program
The days after rehab can set the tone for long-term recovery. Choosing Ready, Set, Go Home gives residents a supportive bridge between therapy and life at home.
Here are some of the key benefits:
- Build confidence and independence by practicing everyday routines with therapists close by for guidance.
- Provide peace of mind knowing residents have access to emergency call systems and caring staff on-site.
- Enjoy engaging amenities such as chef-prepared dining, wellness programs, and social activities that support overall well-being.
- Foster long-term trust and connection with Delmar Gardens, keeping future care options open when needed.
Long-Term Value for Residents & Families
For many participants, the Ready, Set, Go Home program becomes more than just a bridge between rehab and returning home—it’s an introduction to a Senior Living lifestyle within our Delmar Gardens Villas. Some residents discover they truly enjoy the social activities, amenities, and sense of security that come with living in any of our Senior Living communities. In these cases, the short stay often turns into a longer commitment, whether that means extending their independent living experience or transitioning into another level of care when the time is right.
Even for those who do return home, the program leaves a lasting impression. Families gain confidence knowing Delmar Gardens is a trusted partner they can rely on if future care needs arise. And even if long-term residency isn’t the right choice immediately, residents and families already have a community they know and trust—eliminating the tedious process of researching and touring facilities later on. By easing one of life’s toughest transitions, the program builds a strong foundation of trust that often brings residents and families back when the time is right.
Taking the Next Step with Confidence
Transitioning from rehab to home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Delmar Gardens, we’re committed to supporting every step of the healing journey with programs designed to keep residents safe, confident, and independent.
Interested in learning more about our rehab program and the Ready, Set, Go Home program? Contact us today to speak with a Delmar Gardens representative.
