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.
1. Understand Recovery Needs After Surgery
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. However, being aware of these challenges prepares you to create a supportive environment that reduces postoperative risks and promotes healing.
2. Prepare the Home Environment Before Your Elderly Parents Return
Preparation is an integral part of in-home postoperative care. Plan ahead for the immediate needs of elderly parents after surgery that will help them feel supported from the moment they return home.
Plan for Transportation Even Before Surgery
The first thing you must do is ask the hospital about the estimated time until your parents can be discharged. Having a general idea helps you organize transportation early and avoid any last-minute stresses.
Be proactive and confirm all the details. Speak with your parents’ healthcare team about their mobility needs, so you know whether they’ll require a wheelchair, stretcher or simply minimal assistance. It can also be beneficial to bring supplies to make them feel comfortable, such as a small pillow, blanket and their medications.
Create a Safe Environment
Falls are one of the most common postoperative risks. However, simple adjustments can help mitigate them. Clear commonly used pathways from any hazards, remove loose rugs, secure electrical cords and improve lighting in hallways. If your elderly parents need to use a walker or a cane, ensure there’s enough space for them to move safely without obstacles.
Set Up Essential Equipment and Stock Up Supplies
Your parents will likely need adaptive equipment to help them bathe and make them more comfortable. Consider installing safety handles, raised toilet seats and a bench for bathing in the bathroom. Depending on the type of surgery, your parents’ physical therapists may suggest compression devices, mobility aids or specialized cushions.
In addition to adaptive equipment, your parents may need medical equipment such as glucose monitors, nebulizers, oxygen equipment and a blood pressure cuff. Stock up on supplies like antiseptic wipes and bandages, and don’t assume medication refill after surgery is automatic. Always place an order a few working days before they are due to run out.
2. Seek Professional Caregiving Services
Sometimes, recovery requires more expertise than families can provide on their own. A professional in-home care company might be exactly what you and your loved ones need. Since 2013, Village Caregiving has supported families across the Midwest and Eastern United States with dependable, personalized care. The company’s team of compassionate caregivers is well-versed in helping older adults stay safe and comfortable in their homes.
In addition to providing day-to-day care to help your loved one recover from surgery, Village Caregiving services include companionship, veteran care and daily assistance with tasks such as hygiene, bathing, cooking and light housekeeping. You can trust the Village Caregiving staff to guide and support your elderly parents as they navigate the aging process.
How to Find a Reputable and Trustworthy In-Home Care Agency
To find the right in-home care for your elderly parents, check the agency’s accreditation, experience and transparency. Find an agency with clear care plans, background-checked staff and generally good reviews from families. Ensure that they offer the services and flexibility you need. Having a list of questions to ask an in-home care agency before hiring them can help you understand how well their services align with your parents’ needs.
As a licensed home care provider and a member of the Home Care Association of America, Village Caregiving adheres to strict standards by thoroughly reviewing each caregiver’s qualifications and previous experience. Its caregivers need to undergo rigorous training to support the hygiene, mobility and day-to-day tasks of older adults.
Choose the exact level of support and hours required. You can opt for daytime help, overnight care and continuous assistance. Village Caregiving works closely with families, so you always know how your loved ones are doing when you’re not there. Additionally, the company offers flexible payment options, including those accepted by Medicare and Medicaid, when applicable.
Where to Book In-Home Care for Elderly Parents Recovering From Surgery
There are 487,916 home care providers in the U.S. alone, but the right choice is usually the one that can support you locally. Having a nearby team means you can enjoy faster response times and care that feels more personal.
Village Caregiving has over 65 locations across 20 states and employs more than 4,000 staff members. This makes it easy for you to access reliable help when you need it. The company matches families with caregivers based on compatibility, experience, skills and location. Therefore, you can be sure your elderly parents receive care from someone qualified, nearby, available 24/7 and familiar with the community.
3. Follow the Doctor’s Instructions
Always ask your elderly parents’ healthcare provider for detailed postoperative care instructions. Ask them to outline who you should contact if your parents’ condition changes, along with the list of symptoms that need urgent attention. Request clarity on activity level, too, such as how much walking is safe, when bathing is allowed, if there are any exercises they need to do and any medical equipment you might need to buy.
Follow Medication Plan
Following the medication plan exactly as prescribed is vital for smooth recovery. Many older adults leave the hospital with several weeks’ worth of medications, including pain relievers, antibiotics and sometimes blood thinners. These should be taken on schedule and shouldn’t be stopped without the doctor’s approval.
Pay Attention to Wound Care
Proper wound care protects the incision and supports healing. Your parents’ doctor or nurse should show you how to change bandages and clean the incision gently. Monitor the site daily for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth or drainage of pus from the wound.
Dietary Care to Support Recovery
Diet plays a role in recovery. Older adults can usually return to their usual diet once they’re discharged, unless the doctor advises otherwise. However, it might be more comfortable for them to start with smaller portions and gradually increase them over time. Village Caregiving can help you with meal planning and preparation, so your parents can get the nutrition they need to heal.
4. Help Your Parents Stay Comfortable and Emotionally Supported
Physical recovery is only one part of the equation. Post-surgical stress, sleep disruptions and medication can impact your parents’ moods and cognition. Depending on the type of surgery, 5% to 52% of older patients experience anxiety or depression. Although the numbers vary widely, you must be present to help maintain their emotional well-being.
Even small, simple actions can make a difference. Always make time to check in on them and encourage simple routines. Because staying at home for an extended period can feel isolating, it’s essential to set aside time to sit down and chat with them about things outside of their recovery. Helping them stay connected with friends and family through calls or visits is another fantastic way to increase their mental well-being.
If you can’t be present around the clock, professional companionship can fill the gaps. Village Caregiving’s trained caregivers can provide both practical support and meaningful company. They offer conversation and a reassuring presence throughout the day or when you can’t be there yourself.
5. Stay Involved Without Becoming Overwhelmed
About 63 million people in the U.S. are family caregivers, and 94% of them care for adults. While it’s a meaningful role, it’s OK to recognize that it comes with pressure. Various studies show that many caregivers deal with depression or anxiety. Nearly 4 in 10 report emotional stress, and 1 in 3 feels alone. Guilt is another familiar feeling. You might feel bad for taking a break or worry that you’ve made the wrong call.
Although it’s impossible to completely eliminate guilt and stress, you can try to manage them. One of the simplest ways to do it is by setting clear boundaries around your time. For example, set aside an hour or two for yourself each day and do the things that bring you joy. If you have siblings or relatives, ask them to share tasks instead of carrying everything alone.
Working with companies that offer respite care, like Village Caregiving, can also be a great solution. With a professional in-home care company, you can take a break without worrying or feeling guilty about leaving your elderly parents. The caregivers will be there to keep them company while you run errands, attend an event, enjoy a self-care session or go on a vacation.
Creating a Safe, Supportive Healing Experience at Home
Elderly care after surgery requires patience and consistent attention. With the right environment, practical understanding and professional in-home assistance, it can be a safe and positive experience.
Photo Credits: Unsplash
CONNECT WITH DAILY MOM
💖 NEWSLETTER: DAILY READS IN YOUR INBOX 💖
Sign up to receive our picks for the best things to do, see and buy so you can relax and focus on more important tasks! Let us help you be the best version of yourself you can be!
BE SOCIAL WITH US
📌 LOVE IT? PIN IT!📌
