I need a total knee replacement but I live alone (age 77). need help?

@theokitty10 Hmm, that isn't a very compassionate answer. Pretty sure your surgeon nor any family member has had a TKR so they can see how hard it is to get around afterwards. Even when I was much younger and had hip replacements (easier to get around) it would have been a struggle without my husband's help. Also, at a rehab facility they offer daily PT and OT to help you figure out how to do things like put on a sock.

How many hospital days are planned for you? Definitely push back if they talk about a surgery center and sending you home! They did that to my sister-in-law and she would have been in big trouble if my brother wasn't there - the anesthesia was still in her body, and she was confused and disoriented.

If you are on Medicare, please see this discussion about your right to rehab:
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/double-knee-replacement/?pg=1#comment-1332562

A good friend of mine had TKR in January this year. She moved to a rehabilitation center for several weeks before going home because she lives alone.
She did pretty good with that choice.

I've had this surgery, and it's nothing to take lightly. I will be praying for you, as you go forward. Don't let his remark upset you, he does not have the Bedside Manner, I think!

I agree that you should push back. You might want to set up another appointment to tell him again that you need a better post surgery treatment and rehab plan.
I would not be happy with that response either. When i had my tkr my poor husband was in tears several times. I cant imagine doing it alone. You may want to stress the safety issues with your doc and make sure that it is documented.

A few years ago, I took care of my 73 y/o sister after TKR after one week in a rehab. I cannot imagine her recovering home alone. Recently, I had a total hip replacement at 72 and also live alone. I requested in-patient rehab for at least 7 days, after overnite stay in hospital due to other medical conditions. (I qualified for 2 weeks.) After d/c, home PT for 2 weeks. Pre-surgery, the hospital provided an info session on adaptive equipment needs at home, how to use them and what to expect once home. They encouraged getting help. Friends & family brought me food, rides to PT., etc. I found its imperative to be my own advocate. You can request a second opinion. Your current orthopedic does not seem experienced and definitely not compassionate in this area. I have switched doctors in the past because of this attitude. Why risk injury or needless suffering? Best of luck!

Have you used his services before? Was he recommended to you?

Well, both my knees have been replaced twice and both hips are replaced. My left hip was done 3 months ago and I am also 77. I am fairly active and average weight female. I must say, the first few weeks are very awkward even with a walker. I guess your DR has never had a joint replacement. He /she obviously has never maneuvered a walker while trying to make a meal, balance it it to a table or chair or even carry a coffee/drink to enjoy while watching TV. If possible, treat your self with due respect. Seek assistance, you know yourself best. The first few weeks or month are challenging. You do not want an accident. One thing I would stress, do not twist your leg, always tun gently and move your feet in same direction to avid twisting. Best wishes.

No. My primary care doc recommended another doctor in the practice but I wan’t allowed to talk to him because he does hips not knees

Thank you for your advice!

I am 80 and just had TNR on 5/19. I was told by one of the medical team I would need help for several days. A friend stayed with me. I certainly needed her. I could walk, of course. And I was recovering from major surgery That and The anesthesia plus the pain pills had me not at my best. Also the emotional support - just knowing someone was there during that vulnerable time was very helpful. And at some level essential. The best to you begin this journey.