Hello, @slarson14

I never know quite how to describe my balance "issues," to put a measuring stick to the degree of difficulty. I've sometimes thought in terms of 1-to-10, 1 being, "You'd best remain in bed," and 10 being, "What balance difficulty?" Using that scale, I'd say my difficulty is a 7 or 8, and that's an average; some days my balance will be a 5 or 6, and other days a 9, or even a 10.

I'm unsure of what you mean when you say a "trainer bike." Is that a stationary bike? I have a recumbent bike, which I ride not nearly as often as I should. (After reading your post, however, I'm inspired! I'll be on my recumbent bike before this day is out, and perhaps tomorrow and the next day, too. Thank you for the inspiration!)

And a rowing machine! Now that you've mentioned a rowing machine, I think I'll purchase one. I've used them lots whenever I've gone to PT, and have always felt they've been of great help, especialy when it comes to upper body tone and flexibility.

Same here: No "rehab" places for me! A couple of years ago I had a septic infection and, after a few weeks in the hospital, I was finally cleared for discharge but only with the understanding that I next go into a local rehab facility. What a dreadful experience! Ordinarily I'd fuss to learn that my insurance would no longer cover some service or other which I was finding beneficial, but I was absolutely delighted when I learned that my insurance would no longer cover my time in the rehab facility.

Thank you for your many suggestions for where I might post-op help. I know our city's Agency on Aging does lots of good work. Some years ago I was acquainted with the then-director of the Agency, and I recall her saying that the Agency's No. 1 problem is that city residents in-need all too often didn't even know the Agency existed.

You close in saying, "I would come help you if we lived close!" That's the most generous thing I've heard in a long, long time!

And perhaps, as you hint, Mayo might look into the possibility of a seniors "network" of sorts, to help direct volunteers when and where help is needed. A most excellent idea!

Best wishes,
Ray (@ray666)