Aftercare needs for those recovering from a major surgery requires as much planning as preparing for the procedure itself. Although the recovery experience varies for each person, mobility is often one of the most important aftercare needs to be considered. Here are some tips for planning aftercare needs following a major surgical procedure.
Creating a New Zone
After a hip or knee replacement surgery, a patient encounters various mobility challenges. Ankle, back or foot surgery could mean a person would have issues with going up and down a flight of stairs in their home. Creating an alternate space for resting downstairs is one approach to addressing this issue. Putting the important amenities downstairs along with the top essentials can create a comfortable space to support the surgical recovery process.
Home Modifications
Minor steps to reconfigure the layout of the home may be necessary to reduce fall risks. Putting items in reach may mean reorganizing common areas to minimize unnecessary strain or patient movement. Physically adapting the environment may be necessary if the person is likely to experience mobility challenges for an extended amount of time. Home modifications could mean significant, permanent alterations to the home. Enhancements required may be covered by a plan, so there may be numerous ways to offset the costs.
Caregiver Assistance
If a person requires a significant amount of monitoring, caregiver assistance may be necessary. In the absence of a family member, the person may require basic oversight. Basic needs like meal preparation or light housekeeping can make it possible for the patient to remain comfortably in the home for a significant amount of time unattended. If skilled nursing care is required, a patient can receive around-the-clock assistance under the direct supervision of a certified professional.
Meal Delivery
Some plans provide meal delivery assistance. In other cases where it is not covered, the patient can still receive affordable meal delivery services. This may be particularly beneficial to busy families who may have nutritional needs that need to be considered when planning meals for the recovering patient. Any dietary restrictions that may need to be factored into the aftercare plan could be managed through the meal delivery plan.
Mobility challenges after a surgery can be manageable with careful planning. Resources made available by the insurer or any other form of coverage lowers out-of-pocket costs associated with caregiver assistance, home modifications, and meal delivery. Assembling a coalition well in advance can streamline the transition process for the patient.
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