Is there any way for you to go to physical therapy to help strengthen your muscles before the surgery? My surgeon has a pre operative therapy program which helps you prepare for surgery. They also have a class to attend before the surgery to help prepare you for recovery. I am 52 and had my right knee replaced in May. One of the things that helped me was staying on one floor. I slept downstairs on the couch for about 2 months. I was able to get to the kitchen and bathroom without taking any stairs. I packed the clothes I was going to need in a suitcase as well as my bathroom items and had the room set up when I returned home. It also helps to have someone with you for at least the first week to help. A few weeks if possible.