Recovery time can be a slow process, especially if you’re in your retirement years. However, you’ll have plenty of time to devote to rest. Besides getting quality rest, there are also several factors that can influence the speed of your recovery, this includes the severity of your condition and the type of operation you went through. There are also some factors which can be influenced by you, to help you heal faster. Follow these post-surgery recovery tips to get back to your normal schedule and activities as soon as possible!
Follow your Physician’s Instructions
It is always important to pay attention to pre- and post-operation instructions to prevent any potential side effects, such as your wound reopening. If you’re recovering post-surgery, your surgeon would have advised you of various discharge instructions, such as how to engage in self-care, how to medicate, and what to do if you feel any pain. It is critical to follow these instructions and call your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns. For example, if you experience any adverse reactions to your medication or notice unusual symptoms, it would be best to give them a call, in case of any additional complications.
Quality Rest
This one is a no-brainer, but quality rest is incredibly important for recovery. It might be tempting to catch up on errands or engage in activities you love. However, you should be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions. Do not overexert yourself, wait until your doctor has given you clearance to go about your normal lifestyle. Bed rest is recommended, and you should not strain yourself. Be patient, gradually easing into your daily routines in a slow and gentle manner. With quality rest, you’ll be able to speed up the pace of your recovery and resume life as per normal.
Nutrition and Hydration
Unless you have received instructions from your physician to reduce your fluid intake for a while, it is incredibly important to stay hydrated throughout the recovery process. Make sure to drink at least 8 cups of water a day. You should also eat nutritious food rich in Vitamin C, protein and B12 to speed up the recovery process. Eggs and chicken are great sources of protein. If you’re a vegetarian, you can opt for nuts, legumes, and high-protein grains. For Vitamin C, you can eat kale, cantaloupe, and citrus fruits. Foods such as cheese, low-fat yogurt, and fish are good sources of B12. If you’d like more recommendations specific to your situation, you should consult your doctor or a dietitian.
Avoid Infections
To prevent your wound from becoming infected and suffering from complications, make sure to adhere to your doctor’s discharge instructions on caring for the affected area. If you need help, you should ask a family member or friend to assist you in dressing and cleaning the wound. If you notice any signs of infection, such as discharge, fever, or pain, call your doctor as soon as possible to resolve the issue.
Consider Assisted Living
For those who live alone, it can be difficult to recover from surgery. Home care services, or assisted living, can help patients with post-surgery recovery by offering help with personal tasks. For example, assisted living provides help with tasks such as cleaning, grooming, and dressing. Community living also offers help with housekeeping, provides nutritious meals, assists with medication management and more, so you can focus on recovery. You’ll also benefit from having access to help 24/7.
