Article - Making Living At Home After Surgery a Little Easier

The ability to perform everyday tasks is often limited after surgery. While the body is healing, it is important to reduce stress on the weakened area. Even though there may be pain or some physical limitations, most people want to regain their personal independence as quickly as possible. Tasks such as dressing, bathing and toileting are just a few examples of activities most people prefer to perform on their own.

Plan Ahead

For planned procedures, such as hip or knee replacement, order self-help aids in advance. Talk to your doctor or occupational or physical therapist to get a realistic idea of your recovery process and the types of activities you will need assistance with. This will give you time to shop around and get the items you will need for your return home.

After surgery, most patients are told not to bend forward in a chair or they find is difficult to perform other tasks. You can use aids to bathe and get dressed without violating doctor's orders. These helpers also reduce falls due to imbalance because you are too weak to stand for a long period of time.

We have identified some common products that can address common post-operative needs:

Reduce Bending and Reaching

• Reacher - Extends your reach to the floor. Look for a reacher with a grip that is flexible enough to pick up objects of varying weights and sizes, from a piece of paper, to a book or a dime.

• Sock Aid - Stretch the sock open while sitting comfortably. Long handles allow you to drop the sock to the floor and then pull the sock on. We recommend a product with a soft terry cloth on the outside that grips the sock, while smooth nylon on the inside reduces friction so your foot can slip in easily.

• 24" Dressing Stick with shoe horn - Helps you put on your shoes or reach items on the floor. The smooth surface of the "S" hook also helps with dressing if needed.

Assistance with Toileting

• The Toilet Safety Frame serves as extra arms for sitting and as a push-off point for rising. For added stability, look for a model that is secured to the toilet with bolts.

• The Toilevator is a spacer that goes beneath your toilet and raises the seat 3" so you don't have to rise as far. The Toilevator is a more permanent solution and less noticeable aesthetically than a Seat Riser.

Help Bathing

• Bath Transfer Benches and Bath Chairs come in a variety of styles and assist with entry in and out of the bathtub. We recommend a bench seat with a back because it provides more support and comfort.

• Grab Bars are critical for safety. You'll want them professionally installed so they will be there to support you as you bathe. Consider a contrasting color that goes with your decorative style. You'll enjoy that support long after you've recovered.

Be Patient

While recuperating from surgery, it's important to be patient with your limitations. Attempting too much, too quickly may cause additional injury and prolong the recovery process. So get the rest you need and use aids for support to prevent re-injury.

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