Many elderly people undergo surgery at some point in their lives, from hip replacements to more complex operations. If an elderly friend or relative is soon to undergo an operation, you will want to start preparing in advance to help them in their recovery.
If you currently care for them, be aware that caring for someone following surgery can be challenging. Here are a few tips and things to keep in mind once your loved one is home after surgery:
1. Be patient – the first few days after surgery are important and tough
Post-surgery, the first few days back at home, are when you will be needed most. They may be tired, suffering from pain, frustrated at not being able to do the things that they want to, and upset at their loss of independence.
You can help with basic things like personal care and grooming, going to the bathroom and preparing meals. This can be a testing time for both you and the person you are caring for, so try to be understanding and patient and take regular breaks for yourself.
2. Follow the doctor’s orders – medications and wound care at home
Your friend or family member may be taking medications following surgery, so help to make sure they are taking them properly. Monitor their prescriptions and make sure you get new prescriptions on time.
You may also need to observe any wounds for signs of inflammation, and you could help to change the dressings as well. Seek medical attention if you notice anything unusual.
3. Find the balance between support and independence at home post-operation
The long road to recovery can be a difficult time, and your support is needed. Simply being with them and spending time with them can be an enormous help.
There may be many simple things they are unable to do, and you can help with these tasks. These could include household chores, cooking, getting out and about, helping them to get out and see friends, eating the right foods, getting rest, paperwork, taking the rubbish out, etc.
As they get stronger, encourage them to do more on their own. This will help with their independence and will be a boost for them.
Follow their own diet if you can, and don’t drink or smoke around them if they are not allowed to. Show solidarity with their situation and this will make it easier for them.
A lack of progress can be very frustrating. They may have thought they would recover sooner, so be with them and help them to cope if recovery takes longer than expected.
4. Assist with medical appointments and follow-ups
Accompany them to see the doctor. It can be very useful for them to have someone there to listen to instructions and take notes. You could also ask questions, and you may want to write these down in advance. Use the visits as an opportunity to find out more about their condition – the more you know, the more you will be able to help.
5. Keep an eye out for post-surgery complications
There can be various complications following surgery, including sleep problems. These are very common straight after surgery, and they can be stressful. They may even require medication.
Other complications, like infections, can be serious. Keep an eye out for anything unexpected and seek medical advice if you notice anything that concerns you.
6. Help with post-surgery exercises
The doctor may provide exercises to help the patient get strong and get back on track, and you can help with these. Help them to follow their rehabilitation plan and make sure they don’t overdo it.
7. Get help from a professional carer
A carer can help in various ways. If you cannot spend time with your parent or friend, a trained carer can provide the support instead. We have nurse-led carers who are highly experienced in caring for a variety of health conditions including after surgery care.
Or you may simply want to hire respite care. Once a week or so, you can arrange for a carer to come in and take your place so that you can have a break. Looking after someone effectively means looking after yourself as well, so respite care can often be the best way to ensure you get a break.
Arrangements to make before surgery
Before undergoing surgery, it’s crucial to plan and organise practical arrangements to ensure a smooth recovery process. Here are some important steps to take:
- Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you or a loved one to and from the hospital. If you’ve had a general anaesthetic, it’s typically recommended that someone stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.
- Care assistance: Plan for someone to take over any usual caregiving duties while you’re recovering. This may include looking after children, elderly relatives, or pets.
- Home preparations: Stock up on groceries and prepare meals that can be easily reheated, to minimise the need for cooking during your recovery.
- Mobility considerations: If you expect to have limited mobility post-surgery, consider moving essential items and furniture to more convenient locations. You might want to relocate a favourite chair or set up a bed on the ground floor.
- Packing for the hospital: Pack a bag of essentials that will be needed during the hospital stay. This might include:
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- Any regular medications
- Toiletries
- Nightwear
- Comfortable clothes and slippers
- Items to help pass the time, such as books, magazines, or playing cards.
After surgery care at home
While returning home after surgery or a hospital stay is often a welcome relief, the recovery process can take days, weeks or even months. Postoperative care at home provides the support you or a loved one need to rest and recuperate whilst meeting your recovery goals.
At Prestige Nursing & Care, we have provided postoperative and after surgery care to people in their own homes for nearly 80 years. Our clients and their families trust us to provide skilled and compassionate care that is focused on improving health and overall well-being. Our post operative and after surgery care is provided in the place you love most – the comfort and familiarity of your own home.
Call us on 0808 239 1525, and our friendly care experts will discuss your care and support needs. You can also fill out our online enquiry form or email info@prestige-nursing.co.uk. We provide impartial guidance and advice so you make the right choice for you and your family.
