Total hip replacement surgery can make a tremendous difference in your elderly parent’s quality of life, function, and well-being. This surgery eases pain and stiffness, improves flexibility and range of motion, and reduces fall risk among other benefits.
Does Physical Therapy Help Seniors Recover From a Hip Replacement?
There are many things that your elderly parent can do to help them make the most of their recovery, but one that can be particularly beneficial is physical therapy.
As with any surgery, however, it is vital that you recognize your parent will go through a recovery period that can be challenging.
What they do during this period and how much they focus on their recovery is critical to how well they are able to get through the recovery period and how soon they can start enjoying the benefits of their procedure.
How Long Will It Take to Recover From Hip Replacement Surgery?
Recovery period for hip replacement surgery: The total recovery period for a hip replacement surgery is usually between six and twelve months, and physical therapy generally starts right at the beginning.
As soon as the first day after the procedure your parent can begin to participate in minor physical therapy activities.
These will start small, such as getting them out of their bed and into a chair. While this does not seem like a major activity, it can be challenging for an elderly adult who has just undergone this type of procedure and will help to keep the area mobile while also reducing the risk of blood clots.
What to Expect During Physical Therapy
As your parent progresses through their recovery, their physical therapy will also progress.
They will continue to work on their hip, increasing strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Not only is this critical for preventing loss of movement in the area and encouraging the body to become accustomed to the joint, helping it to move effectively and as naturally as possible, but it also helps to reduce pain so your parent can feel more comfortable in the days and weeks after their procedure.
It is very important to note that while your elderly parent can benefit largely from physical therapy, they should not strain the hip. This includes not putting heavy weight on it, not over-stretching it, and knowing their limits so that they do not get overly tired.
Contact Care Options for Kids for Home Care Services
Starting elderly care can be one of the best decisions that you can make throughout your caregiver journey with your aging loved one. This is particularly true if your senior suffers from serious limitations or challenges, or is preparing to undergo or has recently undergone a serious medical procedure such as a hip replacement.
An elderly home care services provider can be with your aging parent on a customized schedule to ensure that they get all of the care, support, and assistance that they need, when they need it. This also ensures that you are still able to give them the care that you are able to and maintain the schedule that is best for both of you.
Through a highly personalized set of services, this care provider can help your parent through the challenges of recovery, prepare for future challenges, and make the most of this new chapter in their lives.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services in Florida, contact the caring staff at Care Options for Kids. Call today (888) 592-5855.
Sources
https://www.prevention.com/health/a20459894/hip-replacement/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hip-replacement/about/pac-20385042
https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/hip-replacement-surgery#1
https://www.medicinenet.com/total_hip_replacement/article.htm
