Surgery can be a difficult experience to recover from for older people, both physically and mentally. Even non-invasive surgeries can leave seniors with pain, side effects, and limited mobility. Many seniors need extra help while on the path to recovery.
Here are a few ways to help an elderly loved one heal after surgery.
Create a Safe Recovery Environment
Oftentimes, seniors may have restrictions after surgery that prevent them from getting around like they used to. They may need help moving around and are at a higher risk of falls and injuries. It’s best to create a recovery space that is safe, comfortable, and ready when they get home.
Consider Outside Help
Sometimes surgery recovery can be difficult and require a lot of care, particularly for major surgeries. If you cannot provide the care needed to help your loved one recover, it is a good idea to consider outside help.
Consider hiring a temporary in-home caregiver who can help with day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Skilled nursing facilities in St. Petersburg, FL, can also provide a high level of care during recovery.
Keep a Close Eye
Even though plenty of routine surgeries and recoveries occur without incident, that’s now always the case. Sometimes seniors can experience unanticipated side effects or complications following an operation.
It’s not a good idea to leave your loved one unattended for long periods following surgery, especially in the days immediately following. They may be unable to call for help, and medication can make it more difficult for them to realize a serious problem.
Stay close and observe them for any new injuries or behavior changes so that you can catch any complications early.
Help with Eating and Hydration
It’s not uncommon for seniors to have little appetite following surgery. However, they must continue to eat and drink following their operation. Our bodies need nutrients and water to properly recover, so skipping meals is not a good idea.
Prepare meals that are easy to eat and be flexible with their preferences on food and eating times. Make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids, even if they aren’t thirsty. Maintaining a consistent diet and hydration level is critical to a healthy recovery.
Keep Up with Medical Appointments
Most surgeries require some sort of after-care that usually includes check-ins with the doctor. Medical staff will want to ensure that your loved one is recovering as expected and that the surgery was successful.
Even if it is difficult to transport your loved one to appointments, it is critical to their recovery. Take the doctor’s advice and consistently attend the required follow-up appointments.
Take Care of Day-to-Day Responsibilities
When your loved one is trying to heal after surgery, the last thing they should be worried about is everyday responsibilities that could be handled by someone else. You can support them by taking on tasks such as:
- Grocery shopping
- Cleaning the house
- Looking after pets
- Paying bills
- Yardwork
- Running errands
When your loved one is recovering, their responsibilities don’t just go away. You can alleviate some of their stress and make their recovery easier by taking some work off their plate.
Recover in an Assisted Living Facility in St. Petersburg, FL
Family members can provide great care for loved ones, but that is not the only after-care option after surgery. Seniors in an assisted living facility in St. Petersburg, FL, have access to dedicated and professional staff trained to help with everyday tasks and specific recovery phases.
Assisted living communities can provide the high quality of care that is needed and give peace of mind to the entire family.
