Choosing A Healthier Life

3 Reasons To Hire In-Home Help After A Joint Replacement

Joint-replacement surgery has many benefits, including reduced pain and improved mobility. That's why more than seven million Americans are living with some type of joint implant, according to the Mayo Clinic. Although joint-replacement procedures are common, many patients worry about how they are going to get through the recovery, especially those who live alone and don't have family members around to help them. If you are thinking about having a joint replaced, here are three reasons to consider hiring in-home help after the surgery.

1. Your family members are unable to care for you.

Staying active is important after your surgery, but you don't want to push yourself too hard. In the first few days after the procedure, you may need help getting to the bathroom or doing your doctor-recommended exercises. If you live with a family member, don't assume that your family member will be able to provide the care you need. Your loved one may not be able to get time off from work or school to care for you. In some cases, loved ones have injuries or illnesses of their own, leaving them unable to assist with tasks such as walking and completing household chores. Arranging for short-term nursing care ensures that you will get the care you need even if your loved one is unable to help.

2. You have a chronic condition such as diabetes or heart disease. 

If you have a chronic medical condition, it is important to take all prescribed medications and use other treatments as directed by your physician. After your joint replacement, you can expect to take pain medication for a few days to reduce discomfort at the surgical site. Some pain medications cause drowsiness, dizziness, or even impaired judgment, which can interfere with your ability to take your other medications as directed. If you have diabetes, you may also need help testing your blood sugar or preparing insulin injections. If you ask for in-home help from one of the short-term nursing care services in your area, you can rest easy knowing that a trained professional is available to help you maintain your health.

3. You'd rather recover at home than in a rehab facility.

Depending on how well you do in the hospital and what your needs are during your recovery, you may be able to choose between going to a rehabilitation facility or hiring a professional to come to your home. Getting in-home orthopedic care services is less expensive than spending several days in a rehab facility, as you only pay for the time that the home-health worker is in your home. You may also be more comfortable if you are in your own home, surrounded by your personal possessions. 

Joint-replacement surgery can transform your life by reducing pain and making it easier for you to do the things you love, but you may need some help during the first few days of your recovery. Instead of relying on untrained family members or paying to spend several nights in an unfamiliar place, consider hiring in-home help.


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