I was 68 when I had both knees replaced in March and July of 2022. Work with your PT for strengthening exercises prior to surgery. That helped speed my recovery as well. You can start simple. Just sit in a straight-backed chair and extend your foot out in front of you. Squeeze the quad and hold for, say 30 seconds, or as long as you can. Repeat with other leg. Simple, painless way to build quad strength.

Good evening @newtosohcm -- it is great to hear from you. I admire you for being a swimmer. One of my best friends is also a swimmer. My pre-surgery routine included 1 super yoga class. I followed that up with daily stretch yoga exercises. I also walked along the river when possible on my moss-covered meditation trail that my life partner created for me.

In addition, I had two sessions of MFR (myofascial release therapy) every week. Because of that work on my legs and feet, I was able to keep up with the rest of my program. I was also doing balance exercises with help from my PT from the Mayo Clinic which included stair climbing, balance walking, and other forms of movement.

At home, I completed some stair sessions so I would be ready for the post-surgery stair exercises.

It all paid off. I was driving within a few weeks as soon as the stitches were removed and used my trek poles when I began walking.

Good luck to you. You have plenty of time before May 23rd. Let me know how it goes.
May you be safe, protected, and free of inner and outer harm.

Chris

I am 72 and had L TKR on February 8. Before my surgery at Kaiser SF I was given exercises to to do. These were the same exercises the PT who came to my home after surgery did with me. They are simple and I found the same exercises on YouTube. It is just over 3 weeks for me now and I walk well without a cane or walker. I live in a Victorian house with lots of stairs and am surprised I have healed so quickly. The first couple of weeks were hard though so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the exercises beforehand. Good luck!