A hip replacement is a big deal, particularly for seniors who are aging in place. In these situations, effective post hospital care is essential for a successful recovery and to guarantee seniors can maintain their independent lifestyle.
Factors that should be considered and components of a successful post hospital care plan are listed below:
Follow-up Appointments
It is essential for seniors to schedule routine follow-up appointments with the surgeon or doctor to track the healing process. These consultations help detect complications, such as surgery site problems or infections, earlier than later. Home care can help ensure seniors make and keep these appointments by providing gentle reminders and transportation.
Physical Therapy
An essential component of rehabilitation is physical therapy. During physical therapy sessions, a physical therapist will lead seniors through hip-strengthening and mobility-enhancing exercises. Regaining independence and avoiding more falls depend on these sessions.
Safety Enhancements and Modifications to the Home
It may be necessary to make modifications to the home to ensure it’s safe for seniors to return. Home health can offer modification suggestions, including installing grab bars in the bathroom, making sure there are no loose carpets or other trip hazards, and upgrading the lighting. These adjustments reduce the risk of falls and help seniors move around their home easier.
Mobility Aids and Post Hospital Care
Mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, and canes may be required, depending on the senior’s needs. These tools offer stability and support while seniors heal. However, seniors might struggle using these devices, which is another area where home care helps. They can ensure seniors use the right form and get the encouragement they need to use the mobility aids consistently.
Daily Living Activities
As part of the post hospital care plan, it should be noted what seniors will and won’t be able to do. With this in mind, loved ones can work with home health to provide assistance with things like daily living activities. For instance, while healing from hip surgery, seniors will likely need help with cooking, cleaning, and possibly bathing.
Medication Management
Taking multiple medications is common throughout the healing period following surgery. To prevent forgotten dosages or unintentional overdosing, proper medication management is essential. Home health can provide this support to ensure seniors stay safe.
Also, part of healing is pain management. Pain management options include prescription medications, over-the-counter pain medicines, and complementary therapies like ice packs or relaxation techniques. Home health can also help with this, encouraging seniors to be open about their pain and what treatments do and don’t help.
Dietary Support and Post Hospital Care
The post hospital care plan might also outline what steps seniors should take to improve their diet, as a well-balanced diet promotes healing. For instance, seniors should prioritize eating foods high in calcium, vitamin D, and protein to build stronger bones and muscles.
Additionally, maintaining proper hydration is crucial. Drinking the recommended amount of fluids improves general health and helps avoid problems like UTIs.
Emotional Health
The healing process can be emotionally taxing. Depression and frustration are frequent emotions that can cause seniors’ recovery to stall. However, with consistent emotional support that promotes social engagement, seniors can continue on their path to recovery.
If loved ones are worried about seniors’ emotional health, recommendations on how to monitor it can be explored as part of the post hospital care plan.
Following hip surgery, seniors returning to their homes need a detailed post hospital care plan that includes personal care, nutrition, emotional support, home modifications, and more to ensure they recover successfully.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Post Hospital Care in Lincoln, NE, please contact the caring staff at AmanaCare today. Call (402) 440-5878, for Central Nebraska Call 308-663-3828
AmanaCare Provides Senior Home Care Services in Lincoln, Kearney, Grand Island, North Platte, Hastings, Omaha, Columbus, Broken Bow, Scottsbluff, Norfolk, and surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.homecareassistancephiladelphia.com/assisting-elderly-parent-after-hip-replacement
- https://www.1776seniorcare.com/blog/hip-surgery-care
- https://www.visitingangels.com/knowledge-center/senior-health-and-well-being/home-care-support-for-seniors-after-hip-replacement/20767
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