Moi a Fall Risk?
My orthopedic surgeon spoke concisely and with all seriousness, “The bad news is that you have a torn meniscus. The good news is that it is repairable.” I had been diagnosed with arthritis in my knees some time ago and had been living with a daily level of discomfort. In recent months the pain in one knee became noticeably worse and much as I tried denial and rationalization, I had to come to terms with the fact that I could no longer sleep, sit, walk, or conduct my routine activities comfortably. My knee felt unsteady and uncontrolled.
Aches and pains are part of life’s journey and I accept them as part of the whole package. Old injuries and age come home to roost and I am no youngster. I realized that the pain would not cease and was at risk for a less than ideal situation if I fell. The number one cause of hospitalizations for seniors is falls, the second is medication issues. Yep, that’s me. Just write a check in the boxes.
Surgery is scheduled – now what?
Typically, pre-admission testing, approvals from physicians are needed prior to surgery. You are also given a set of pre and post-operative instructions and prescriptions specific to your procedures. Aside from the usual activities of daily living, I also run a business. The order of my life will be changing substantially during the recovery period. Mobility and independence will be limited. Someone must drive me to and from the surgery center, physical therapy and follow-up visits to my physician. I may not be able to function on my own for a temporary period. Egads. Time for a plan.
Technology is a wonderful thing. It allows one to function outside of a formal work environment as well as be a great asset to the homebound. However, the home environment is frequently the most challenging issue.
Your Home is Not Your Friend
As I surveyed the floor plan and outside access of my home, I realized some quick changes were needed to ensure my safety and recovery. Mobility would be dependent on crutches and paths had to be clear. Scatter rugs had to go and stairs temporarily forbidden. The bathroom is my worst enemy unless safety equipment is in place. Non-slip footwear is absolutely required.
Pain medications can have side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness. I will need someone with me temporarily. Having meals ready to reheat in advance, dry shampoo, sponge bath necessities, changes of clothing located conveniently are all organized and in place. A portable bed and/or commode are also useful for those first days after surgery. A sturdy chair with arms a must. Outside paths are cleared of debris. Fortunately, I have a choice and decided to do this before the winter season. Crutches do not respond well upon contact with bottle caps, wet leaves, uneven pavement, acorns or ice.
Consider Concierge Services
Concierge care is comprised of customized home care plans and services created around a specific procedure for a short term period. Agencies offering these kinds of services work closely with your attending physician(s) and customize the services as prescribed The services include driving the client to and from surgery, picking up medications, shopping, housekeeping, meal preparation as well as skilled services for wound care, therapies and home health aides. Concierge services may be daily for a specific time period, 24 hour coverage, or can be a live-in situation for a set number of days depending on the procedure performed. If you live alone or otherwise have no one nearby, able or qualified, Concierge Services are the perfect solution.
