October 9, 2020
There’s no doubt about it, going through surgery can be a challenge. But watching a senior loved one get surgery can be even more nerve-wracking. Family members often feel guilty or helpless while their loved one receives the medical care they need.
The good news is that once your senior loved one is done with their surgery, you can make a difference in their recovery. It’s common for seniors who have recently had surgery to lose mobility and struggle to maintain the level of well-being they’re used to. You’re ready to do all you can to help, you’re just not sure where to start. There’s no need to worry, because we’re here to highlight some of the top ways you can help your loved one recover from surgery.
Having the time to rest is crucial for older adults after surgery. One of the best ways you can help your loved one is by helping them with their daily activities. There are bound to be some chores like doing laundry or cleaning high traffic areas of their home, that your loved one won’t be able to do.
Talk with your senior loved one and volunteer to help them with tasks like this. Every task that you’re able to take off their plate, will give your loved one more time to focus on their recovery.
It’s important for your senior loved one to have a regular sleep schedule after surgery. But how can you have an impact on your loved one’s sleep? A good place to start is making sure that your loved one keeps a consistent sleep schedule. Check in with them to ensure they are going to bed at the same time each day.
You can also help your loved one cut back on caffeine during the afternoon. If your loved one is having trouble going to sleep after surgery, the simple act of listening to their issues can provide comfort. If any sleeping issues continue, it’s important to reach out to your loved one’s doctor for support.
For seniors who have recently undergone surgery, they might feel stressed or anxious since recovery doesn’t happen overnight. But you can be there to keep your loved one engaged to keep their mind off of any pain or discomfort they might be feeling. All you need to do is be a positive distraction for them.
Schedule some time each week to watch a movie, play a board or enjoy a book with your loved one. Not only will this give them something to look forward to but keeping your loved one occupied can actually speed up their recovery.
A surprising challenge that many seniors face after surgery is making it to their follow-up appointments. It’s common for older adults to have their first follow-up appointment a day or two after surgery. You can make a big difference in your loved one’s recovery by helping them make it to their appointments.
It’s also a good idea to sit-in with your loved one while they see their doctors. You can keep notes of what the doctor says about your loved one’s recovery and ask important questions. This is an easy way to keep your loved one’s recovery after surgery on track.
Skilled nursing communities, like Franciscan Ministries, provide personalized care to help your loved one recover from surgery. It’s all about helping your loved one regain their independence and level of wellness. A team of medical professionals deliver care that is above and beyond what can be provided at home.
Plus, your loved one will have more opportunities to socialize with other seniors at the community. Franciscan Ministries provides your loved one with a comfortable and healing environment. Plus, we will work with your loved one’s doctor to create a recovery plan tailored to their specific needs.
Our team of licensed and experienced health care professionals are ready to help your loved one recover. We have raised the bar in skilled nursing care and are dedicated to giving your loved one a positive experience.
If your senior loved one is getting ready to have surgery, learn how our team can help their recovery journey move forward. Contact us today to find one of our skilled nursing communities near you.
We offer rehabilitative services and skilled nursing care at the following communities near you.
© Copyright 2024|Privacy Policy|Disclaimer|Equal Housing|Accessibility|Site Map
