Joint replacement surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures among older adults. After your senior loved one has joint replacement surgery, he or she needs loving care and assistance while recovering. Here are a few ways you can help your aging parent with the healing process.
Help with Exercise
After the operation, a physical therapist may prescribe a home exercise program for your loved one. Exercise helps your parent build strength. Help your loved one keep track of the exercise plan, and make sure he or she is performing the physical activities properly.
Many seniors need help exercising. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care. Victoria Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Assist with Wound Care and Medications
Be present when a nurse or physician is discussing the medications and other treatments your loved will need after surgery. It’s important that the medicines are taken as scheduled and prescribed. You should also monitor wounds for infection, swelling, and discomfort.
Provide Positive Distractions
After surgery, it’s crucial to keep your loved one mentally engaged while he or she recuperates. Ask your loved one to share favorite stories, or do activities together like watching a film, coloring, or assembling a puzzle. These positive distractions can keep your loved one busy, boost his or her mood, and facilitate the healing process.
Set Reminders About Appointments
Create and organize a calendar of appointments to ensure your loved one doesn’t miss any follow-up visits. If your loved one misses an appointment, it could cause setbacks and complications. Your loved one will probably be unable to drive for a few weeks following the operation, so make sure to provide transportation or arrange rides to doctor appointments.
Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to speed up your loved one’s healing process. Victoria elderly care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Take Over a Few Basic Tasks
After joint replacement surgery, your loved one may find it difficult to manage daily tasks. Offer support by simply doing the chores or errands your loved one can no longer do independently, such as caring for a pet or preparing meals. Helping out with daily tasks allows your loved one enjoy stress-free rest, which can accelerate the healing process.
Track Progress and Watch for Changes
Keeping track of your loved one’s recovery process may lift his or her spirits. Should you see any drastic changes in physical or mental health such as side effects from medications, depression, or changes in the wound, it’s best to contact your loved one’s physician as soon as possible.
Recuperating seniors often require assistance with a wide variety of daily activities. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Victoria seniors can maintain their independence while Healthy Living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
