Shoulder replacement recovery: physio and home support questions

[Rentalqueries]

MIL is awaiting a shoulder replacement. If you've had one or know someone with one:

-How much physio did you have/need afterwards?
-What support/help at home did you need in the early weeks?
-If you/they are on a pension, did they have re-enablement and any carer support at home?
-Any tips on things to buy/plan beforehand?

I had a shoulder joint replacement just over a year ago at 74 years old. I made a rather thorough job of shattering the joint in a fall. Mine was a reverse, so socket ends up on humerus, ball on shoulder. It was my right - dominant - side. Brace for 6 weeks and joint needed to be kept immobile except for physio exercises. First protective Dressing removed at 3 weeks. Could shower with care a few days later, which was bliss! So needed a bit of help with personal care but it’s surprising how much you can manage one handed. I received very good physio. I felt the physiotherapist allocated to me at our local hospital after discharge really “got” me. Told me to get as much of my life back as possible, as quickly as possible. And very encouraging. Started driving again at about 8 weeks post op.

I was still in almost full time work at the time, and at my last face to face consultation the consultant told me that the people who do best are those with a purpose - golf, gardening, work, doesn’t matter what. Just need to have a goal. And those that follow the instructions.

one year on I have very good movement. Most days I don’t think about it, occasionally it reminds me! Do PM me if any other questions. I had a phone consultation at 6 months and then a self referral facility for 6 months.

Just to add. I could have had a care package but was fortunate to have daughter for first week after discharge and son for a second week. After that I had a short care visit each day which I paid for with the help of a grant through my work. Surgery on Monday. Home on Thursday.

A wedge shaped pillow was useful. Stretchy oversized t-shirts and pull on elasticated trousers. Later on, front fastening racer back bra. Still the easiest and most comfortable.

@vicarlady Thank you so much for your info and some great tips.

MIL hasn't had the pre-op visit with anaesthetist as yet, but the surgeon said most patients were discharged on the day or the next! He also said that the hospital can't arrange any post op support and she should speak to her GP to see IF there is funding in her area! TBH this seems bonkers and not correct at all.

She will likely be in a sling for at least 2 weeks following the survey and will be given exercises post operatively and then followed up by physio in a clinic. Very likely discharged day of surgery or day after.
If you think she will need help following the surgery then you will be expected to provide/organiser/fund it beforehand, it is an elective surgery that you need to plan for.

@NamelessNinja Thank you for the info.

If you think she will need help following the surgery then you will be expected to provide/organiser/fund it beforehand, it is an elective surgery that you need to plan for.
I'd read that she might get an enablement package for 6 weeks if needed, but is that only if the surgery is from an accident or something like a stroke/heart attack?