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Can Assisted Living Host Total Knee Replacements?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
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With over a decade of dedicated experience, Andrea Miller boasts an extensive background in healthcare writing and editing. Her expertise spans various facets of the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on nursing, senior care, Alzheimer’s disease, and public health. Andrea has also contributed her editorial talents to reputable publishers in the Philadelphia region, complementing her extensive freelance work.
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Dr. Brindusa Vanta is a health care professional, researcher, and an experienced medical writer (2000+ articles published online and several medical ebooks). She received her MD degree from “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine, Romania, and her HD diploma from OCHM – Toronto, Canada.
Assisted living can host total knee replacements. Many people use a walker or crutches to get around for four to six weeks after this procedure. However, they likely need help with activities of daily living, such as preparing meals, dressing and bathing. Assisted living staff members help with these tasks and can also manage medications prescribed by the individual’s doctor during recovery.
How Long Do You Need a Caregiver After Knee Replacement Surgery?
You need a caregiver for several days to several weeks after knee replacement surgery. After hospital discharge, assisted living staff help you with grooming, getting around the community and performing other ADLs. It can take about six weeks before you regain the ability to walk without a mobility aid.
Assisted living staff also help you care for your knee post-surgery. You’ll need to apply ice, keep the joint elevated and take medications as prescribed by your physician.
What Should You Expect During Total Knee Replacement Recovery?
It takes about six weeks to return to your regular activities following total knee replacement recovery and up to a year for your knee to fully heal. Your health care team helps you get up and walk around shortly after surgery to help prevent blood clots or other complications.
Wearing elastic compression socks also reduces the risk of blood clots, and your doctor might prescribe blood thinners. Physical therapy after total knee replacement helps you gradually and safely increase your level of activity.