Hip and knee replacements are among the most common surgeries for older adults, and most people go home within a day or two. That’s good news for recovery, but it also means much of the healing happens at home. Planning home care after knee replacement or hip replacement before surgery day makes the first weeks safer and less stressful.
Quick answer: After a hip or knee replacement, most people need help for the first several weeks with getting in and out of bed, bathing, dressing, meals, medications, and rides to therapy. Preparing the home in advance, following movement precautions, and having support during the early recovery period lower the risk of falls and setbacks.
Before Surgery: Prepare the Home
Get the house ready before the hospital stay:
- Create a main-floor living space if stairs are difficult, including a place to sleep.
- Clear wide paths for a walker, and remove rugs, cords, and clutter.
- Raise seating: a firm chair with armrests is easier to stand from than a low sofa.
- Set up the bathroom: a raised toilet seat, shower chair, handheld showerhead, and grab bars. See bathroom safety for seniors.
- Gather tools: a reacher, long-handled shoe horn, sock aid, and long-handled sponge.
- Stock the kitchen with easy, nutritious meals.
- Put essentials within reach, between waist and shoulder height.
Line Up Help in Advance
Ask the surgical team how much help to expect. Many people need someone with them around the clock for the first few days, and help with daily tasks for several weeks. Decide in advance who will cover each part of the day, including nights. If family can’t cover everything, arrange home care before surgery so support starts when your loved one gets home. Our hospital discharge checklist covers what else to arrange.
The First Weeks of Home Care After Knee Replacement or Hip Replacement
Mobility and Fall Prevention
Your loved one will likely use a walker or crutches. Stay close during walking, especially to the bathroom at night. Falls after joint replacement can cause serious complications.
Following Precautions
Some hip replacement patients are given precautions about bending, crossing legs, or twisting. Knee replacement patients often focus on regaining motion. Post the surgeon’s specific instructions where everyone can see them.
Physical Therapy and Exercises
Therapy exercises are essential to recovery. Help with rides to outpatient therapy, encourage home exercises, and celebrate progress. Therapy can be tiring, so plan rest afterward.
Pain Management
Taking pain medication as prescribed, especially before therapy, can make exercises more manageable. Ice and elevation may be recommended for swelling. Watch for side effects like constipation or drowsiness.
Bathing and Dressing
Bathing is often the riskiest daily task in early recovery. A caregiver can provide standby help or hands-on assistance. Follow instructions about keeping the incision dry.
Nutrition and Hydration
Protein, fruits, vegetables, and fluids support healing and help prevent constipation from pain medication.
Warning Signs to Report
Call the surgeon promptly for:
- Fever, chills, or increasing redness, warmth, or drainage at the incision
- New or worsening calf pain, swelling, or tenderness
- Pain that suddenly gets much worse
- Signs of dislocation after hip surgery, such as sudden severe pain or a change in leg position
Call 911 for chest pain or sudden shortness of breath.
Staying Motivated
Recovery takes weeks to months. It’s common to feel frustrated or discouraged along the way. Companionship, encouragement, and small goals help. For more on the overall recovery journey, see our pillar guide to recovering at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my parent need help after knee replacement?
Many people need daily help for at least the first two to six weeks, gradually needing less as strength and mobility improve. Recovery varies with age, health, and surgery type.
Can someone stay alone after hip replacement?
Usually not for the first few days. After that, it depends on mobility, precautions, and the surgeon’s guidance.
How Briggs Home Care Can Help
Briggs Home Care provides short-term personal care after joint replacement surgery, including mobility support, bathing, meals, medication reminders, and rides to therapy, so your loved one can focus on getting stronger. Find a location near you or call 1-833-960-CARE (2273).
This article is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the surgeon’s instructions.
Related Reading
- Start here: Recovering at Home: A Family Guide to Care Transitions After Illness or Surgery
- Advance Care Planning: How to Start the Conversation
- Recovering From Surgery as an Older Adult: Tips for a Smoother Recovery
Trusted outside resource: Medicare.gov
