Guide To In-Home Care For Elderly Parents Recovering From Surgery

"Caring for elderly parents after surgery requires more than patience and understanding. You must familiarize yourself with medical instructions, so your parent can achieve a successful recovery and a smooth transition back to their everyday life. It can be a stressful process for everyone involved, but there are several steps you can take to ensure your loved ones receive the proper care along the way, including home preparation and professional caregiving services, such as those provided by Village Caregiving."

"Every year, around 4 million surgeries are performed on patients aged 65 or older in the U.S. Their recovery process is often more complex compared to that of younger people due to a combination of age-related factors. Aging causes wounds to take longer to heal, reduces muscle strength and increases the likelihood of postoperative infections. Studies led by Michigan Medicine show that one in five older adults develops an infection up to six months following heart surgery."

"Many older adults also experience increased confusion or fatigue after surgery, particularly if they received general anesthesia. Mobility changes are also common. Even if your elderly parents were independent before surgery, they may now need help getting out of bed, bathing or managing medication schedules. This doesn't mean that you and your family should expect the worst. The first few days at home can be physically demanding and emotionally sensitive."

Caregivers must learn medical instructions to help elderly parents recover and transition back to daily life. Around 4 million surgeries occur annually in U.S. patients aged 65 or older, and recovery is often more complex due to age-related factors. Aging slows wound healing, reduces muscle strength, and raises postoperative infection risk; one in five older adults develops an infection within six months after heart surgery. Many older adults experience confusion or fatigue after general anesthesia and face mobility changes requiring help with bathing, getting out of bed, or medication management. Planning ahead, preparing the home, arranging transportation, and using professional caregiving services support safer recovery.

Read at Daily Mom magazine