Connect
← Return to I need a total knee replacement but I live alone (age 77). need help?
Discussion
I need a total knee replacement but I live alone (age 77). need help?
Joint Replacements | Last Active: 1 hour ago | Replies (21)Comment receiving replies
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!
Replies to "A few years ago, I took care of my 73 y/o sister after TKR after one..."
Connect
This is the biggest and hardest surgery to recover from. Definitely need a rehabilitation center that you thoroughly evaluate first ( you can choose which you use). I’d be wary of that surgeon and would seek a second opinion.
Ask him what the follow up physical therapy plan is. Once discharged from in home care I had PT 3x/ week for months. I wasn’t allowed and couldn’t drive myself initially as I would take an Oxycodone before.
One year later I’ve finally started to forget about my new knee. It still doesn’t feel like a real knee or work like one. I still feel arthritic in it before storms. Going downstairs or downhill is still a pain. You definitely can’t kneel on it. Lots to think about.