Preparing Your Home for a Smooth Recovery After Orthopaedic Surgery

After having surgery and spending the night in hospital, there's nothing better than going home and being in your comfort zone. However, to ensure a smooth and full recovery, your home should be prepared to accommodate the position you are now in.

Since mobility may be limited following surgery, your living space should be safe and comfortable and set up in a way for you to avoid unnecessary strain and risk of accidents. Changes can be as simple as rearranging furniture, creating clear walking paths, and placing essential items within easy reach.

These small modifications can make a huge difference, making daily activities more manageable. In this article we'll aim to answer the question, 'what do I need at home after a knee replacement?' With proper preparation you'll recover faster and have greater peace of mind.

Set Up a Rest Area

Have a dedicated rest area in your home, somewhere safe and comfortable that will aide your recovery. Whether your young or old having a space specifically for you can help you relax and feel less rushed to get better, especially for the older generation as double hip replacement recovery time and hip surgery recovery time for elderly can take a little longer.

To begin, choose a spot that's quiet, comfortable, and close to the bathroom if possible. It should be equipped with comfortable, firm seating or a supportive bed, both with plenty of pillows for positioning and comfort.

Prepare the room in such a way that you have easy access to all your essentials - medications, water, snacks, tissues, phone, and remote controls should be within arm's reach. Add a bedside lamp or keep a nightlight so you can move around safely at night and keep books, headphones, or a tablet nearby for mental stimulation during downtime.

Modify Your Rooms

Each of the rooms in your home need to be converted into a haven. The kitchen, living room and bedroom alike should be transformed into safe, comfortable and accessible living spaces, essential for post-surgery recovery.

Bedroom

• Adjust the bed height so it's easy to get in and out of.
• Use lightweight, cotton sheets for comfort and breathability.
• Have a bedside table within arm's reach for water, medication, glasses, and phone.
• Leave plenty of room around the bed to make movement easy (especially if using mobility aids).
• Keep a lamp nearby for use at nighttime.

Living Room

• Invest in a recliner or chairs with firm cushions and armrests to assist with standing up.
• Arrange furniture to create wide, clear walking paths for crutches or a walker.
• Keep a small table or tray close to your chair for snacks, books, and remotes.
• Make sure the room is well lit to avoid accidents.

Bathroom

• Install grab bars near the toilet and inside/outside the shower for support and stability.
• Keep toiletries within easy reach.
• Use a raised toilet seat to reduce strain when sitting or standing.
• Consider using a sturdy shower chair or bench for safe bathing.
• Add non-slip mats in and outside the shower or tub.

Kitchen

• Store frequently used items such as plates, cups, utensils etc at waist height to avoid bending or stretching.
• Prepare and freeze healthy, nutritious meals before surgery that can easily be reheated.
• Use lightweight cookware and consider one-handed kitchen tools.
• Keep a small cart or basket handy for carrying items without straining.

Create a Safe Environment

Since mobility may be limited after orthopaedic surgery it is important to create a home environment that is safe and with reduced risks. A smooth recovery requires

• Keep Pathways Clear: Rearrange areas to create wide, obstacle-free walkways for crutches, a walker, or wheelchair. Remove clutter, cords, and small furniture that can be a tripping hazard.
• Create Secure Flooring: Bathrooms and kitchens should be fitted with non-slip mats in and loose rugs removed or secured in place.
• Install Good Lighting: Rooms, hallways, and stairways should be well-lit, especially for nighttime visibility.
• Use Stable Furniture: Avoid using low or overly soft seating that makes it hard to stand.
• Make Essentials Accessible: Medications, water, phone, and remote controls should be within easy reach at waist or shoulder level.
• Remove Small Pets: You may have to consider rehoming your pet for a brief period if there is a chance they may cause you to trip.

Stock up on Medication and Food

Stocking up on medication and food before surgery helps you avoid unnecessary stress and ensures you can focus fully on healing. With regards to medication, ask your doctor for all post-surgery prescriptions in advance so they're ready when you return home and keep track of your doses by using a pillbox. Keep pain relief handy and have easy access to your pharmacy and doctors contact information.

As for food, it's advised to prepare meals in advance; make them single-portions and easy to reheat. Keep nutritious and easy to eat snacks like yogurt, fruit, granola bars, and nuts available for quick energy. Water is a must have so utilise a refillable water bottle that you can keep close by.

And make use of deliveries - get your shopping, and even meals, delivered right to your door if cooking becomes too difficult or tiresome.

Ask for Help

Many people refrain from asking for help during surgical recovery, but having support from others helps you heal quickly and most importantly safely. Having assistance with activities like bathing, climbing stairs, or preparing meals will reduce the risk of falls and other possible injuries that can delay recovery.

Many people ask, 'do you use crutches after knee replacement?'. You likely will for at least a few days to keep weight off your new knee, but your surgical team will advise on your situation. If you are using crutches then you may need help with chores, shopping, or transportation. A friend or family member taking over these roles provides you with time to rest and focus on rehabilitation instead of overexerting yourself.

And don't overlook emotional support. The surgery recovery period can be an overwhelming time, and receiving support from your family, friends, or even caregivers can give you the encouragement you need and ultimately reduce your stress and anxiety.

Get expert help and advice from Victorian Bone & Joint Specialists. We know how to help someone after ACL surgery and many other major operations. Don't hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have. We're here to help you have a speedy, successful recovery.