What Type of Care Do You Need After Garden Terrace Healthcare Center of Federal Way?
Jun 8, 2025
When a loved one is being discharged from Garden Terrace Healthcare Center of Federal Way, it often brings relief—but also many questions. What’s the next step? Can they go home safely? Should they move to assisted living, or is hospice a better fit? This comprehensive guide will help you determine the best type of care post-discharge, tailored to your family’s needs and budget.
Discharge Process
Discharge planning at Garden Terrace begins early, typically initiated by the care team once your loved one starts to show signs of improvement. A formal meeting is held with the physician, therapists, nurses, and case manager, along with family members.
Who Decides on Discharge?
Physician: Ultimately signs off on discharge when the patient is medically stable.
Rehabilitation Team: Assesses physical progress and whether therapy goals are met.
Social Worker/Discharge Planner: Coordinates logistics for care, transport, and home support.
What Families Should Prepare ✅
Upon discharge, make sure to:
Fill All Prescriptions: Some may be time-sensitive—do this immediately.
Collect All Documents: After-care instructions, therapy plans, and follow-up appointments.
Arrange for Durable Medical Equipment: Walkers, shower chairs, oxygen, etc.
Review Insurance & Coverage: Know what’s covered and what isn’t for post-discharge services.
Secure Transportation: Ensure they have a safe and comfortable ride home.
📝 Pro Tip: Ask the discharge planner for a full checklist and emergency contact numbers.
When You’d Need Home Care
Home care is the most popular option for those discharged from Garden Terrace—especially when recovery is still ongoing but doesn’t require 24/7 supervision.
Signs Home Care Is Needed:
Services Home Care Covers:
Personal care: Bathing, toileting, dressing
Companionship: Preventing isolation 🧓👩🦳
Light housekeeping: Dishes, laundry, sweeping
Errands & groceries
Transportation to appointments
Medication reminders
Real Testimonials 💬
"When my father was released from Garden Terrace, we didn’t know where to start. Caringene had someone in our home the next day—and she even helped us get his meds and food for the week." — Jason L.
"Mom had a hip replacement. Garden Terrace helped her walk again, but she needed help at home. Caringene made it easy. The cost was way better than the other agencies we called." — Tanya G.
Why Families Pick Caringene First For Home Care
Home Care Comparison Table
When You’d Need Assisted Living
If your loved one cannot be left alone safely and needs consistent support, assisted living may be the right next step.
Signs Assisted Living Is Best:
They need help with 3+ activities of daily living (ADLs)
They show signs of confusion or dementia
Their home is no longer safe due to layout or stairs
Social isolation is harming their emotional health
Assisted Living Options:
Real Testimonials 💬
"After my brother’s stroke, Garden Terrace got him walking again—but he needed more help. We moved him to an assisted living facility in Federal Way, and it’s been amazing to see him thrive again." — Valerie M.
"The memory care unit we chose after Garden Terrace had music therapy, puzzles, and caring staff. It gave my mom joy again." — Roger T.
When You’d Need Hospice or Palliative Care
Some discharges from Garden Terrace signal a more serious turn—especially for individuals with advanced illnesses.
Signs Hospice or Palliative Care Is Needed:
Terminal illness with life expectancy under 6 months
Focus has shifted from curing to comfort
Chronic pain or symptom management is a priority
Care Types:
Home Hospice: Nurses visit to manage pain, family receives support
Inpatient Hospice: Full-time care in a hospice facility
Palliative Care at Home: Helps with symptom relief while still pursuing treatments
Real Testimonials 💬
"Garden Terrace helped us prepare emotionally for Dad’s transition to hospice. The in-home nurses we hired afterward gave us comfort and peace we didn’t think was possible." — Brian F.
"With advanced COPD, my wife wasn’t getting better. Palliative care gave her dignity and me support—I didn’t have to do it alone." — Natalie R.
Comparison Table of Care Options
FAQs 🤔
How long does discharge planning take at Garden Terrace?
Usually begins 5–10 days before expected discharge. Ask your case manager for updates.
Can I arrange care before my loved one is officially discharged?
Yes—and you should. Caringene can line up support within 24–48 hours so there’s no gap.
What does "skilled nursing facility discharge" mean?
It means the individual no longer requires 24/7 medical supervision but may still need some support at home.
Will Medicare cover home care?
Medicare covers home health care (e.g., wound care or PT). Non-medical home care (like bathing or cleaning) is often private-pay.
Can I combine home care with hospice?
Yes, many families do both. Hospice covers pain management, while caregivers help with daily needs.
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Need Help Right Away? Caringene serves all of King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties. We’re ready when you are—call or text us 24/7 to get started. 💬