Suggestions for Seniors Undergoing Hip Replacement Surgery

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Tips for Older Adults Having Hip Replacement Surgery in Des Moines, IA

According to the CDC, around 315,000 hip replacement procedures are performed every year, and most of the people undergoing these surgeries are over the age of 60. Hip replacement surgery has a very high success rate, but there are some important pre-op and post-op instructions to follow. Here are a few steps seniors can take to increase their comfort and reduce their recovery time following a hip replacement.

Research the Exact Type of Surgery

There are many ways to replace a hip, and all of these procedures produce their own unique side effects. A few weeks before the operation, your senior loved one should sit down with the doctor and discuss where the incisions will be made and what types of materials are going to be used. Seniors who have their hip joints resurfaced experience a much different recovery than those who need brand-new metal or plastic hip sockets. Due to limited mobility, seniors may need help with daily tasks in the initial days after hip replacement surgery. In-home 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.

Start a Simple Exercise Routine

Unless the doctor has told your loved one to avoid exercise, he or she should try to be as physically active as possible. Strengthening the muscles and ligaments throughout the legs and core may speed up recovery and minimize discomfort. Once the surgery has been performed, the doctor is probably going to suggest mobility and flexibility exercises instead of strength training. After six or seven weeks, your loved one should be able to swim, walk, or ride a stationary bike as long as the incisions are healing correctly.

Promote Healing with a Nutritious Diet

The foods your loved one eats before and after the procedure could have a major impact on his or her recovery and overall wellness. Your loved one’s body won’t be able to heal itself unless he or she consumes a wide range of vitamins and minerals as well as fiber, protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Bright fruits, leafy green vegetables, and lean meats provide energy and reduce the risk of infection. Your loved one should also avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and any other products that might compromise his or her immune system.  Cooking healthy meals while recovering from a surgical procedure can be difficult for older adults. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Des Moines Home Care Assistance can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks.

Put Together a Recovery Team

All seniors who undergo hip replacement surgery are going to require some post-op assistance for at least a week or two. Even if your loved one is relatively healthy, he or she may still need help preparing meals, going to the restroom, and keeping the incisions clean. Get your loved one’s home ready for post-op recovery. He or she should have a comfortable chair to sit on, plenty of entertainment, and a refrigerator full of food. You should also make sure your loved one’s phone is accessible so he or she can immediately contact you if needed.

Carefully Follow All Medication Instructions

The surgeon is going to provide very specific instructions for painkillers and antibiotics. Failing to follow those instructions could result in dependence on the painkillers or a severe infection if the antibiotics aren’t taken as prescribed. These instructions must be in writing, and you might want to make copies. The medication instructions will contain exact details on dosages as well as when the medications need to be taken and for how long.  Receiving professional in-home care can help your loved one recover quickly and efficiently. When searching for reliable Des Moines at-home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved ones will be well taken care of. At Home Care Assistance, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438.

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