Convalescence after hip replacement

[Lookbusy]

My mother's in her early nineties and is considering a hip replacement op. Her consideration doesn't include the period immediately after the operation, namely how and where she will convalesce.

She lives alone in a block of flats without a lift. I live close by, and although I'd be happy to take on practical stuff like shopping and laundry (much of which I do for her anyway) I cannot entertain the thought of assisting her in a more personal, caring role. Nor can I accommodate her at my home.

Could anyone give me ideas of what sort of caring options might be available and whether these are arranged directly or through GP/hospital? I don't accompany her to all her appointments and know that if she was asked she'd tell them that I'll be taking care of her! And any idea of the length of time required for recovery (I seem to remember my dad was back to his former self within 3 months, although he was in his late 70's when he had his new hip)?

TIA

[poisonedbypen]

The hospital will discharge her with the appropriate care package in place. Some hospitals have a rehab ward where they can go for a while too.

[Lookbusy]

Thanks, poisoned - is the care package likely to involve a convalescent home, or carers attending her in her own place? I literally have no experience of such things. I should mention that she could afford to fund a reasonable level of care on a temporary basis.

[thisagain]

My dad is 82 and had a knee replacement last November and a hip replacement in June. He has recovered very well from his hip but still has trouble from his knee. It's hard to say how well he recovered from his hip, because was still recovering from his knee. However, he still works and was back in work 8 weeks after his hip op. Was using crutches and now used a stick. He says that the hip operation was nothing compared to the knee.

[Lookbusy]

Respect to your Dad, this ! To still be working despite two replacement joints and being 82 is remarkable.

[Needmoresleep]

Private convalescent care is very expensive, but in my view worth considering if you can. A good use of rainy day money.

Hospitals are disorientating, the food is not good and the after-effects of a General Anethetic can last weeks. So if you can find a nursing home (nursing needed for pins and stitches) which has nice quiet rooms with en suites, good food and programmed activities, the chances of getting your DM back on her feet are that much higher. Treat it like a stay in a luxury hotel. (or as an invenstment - additional independence will mean a better quality of life and lower care costs going forward.)

Also look at post-op physiotherapy. It can take a while for the hospital and community services to communicate and get going. Some private physio sessions in the meantime are well worth considering. Using the hip initially is really painful, but if muscles wither the replacement might mean loss of mobility.

[thisagain]

I know, he is amazing . I hope your mums op and recovery goes well.

[Lovelyideas]

Do not assume the NHS will be able to provide the aftercare, these services are stretched to breaking point as I learned to my cost with my dad.
I would plan private rehab in advance and spend the rainy day money