How to Prepare Your Home for Hip Surgery Recovery

The success of your hip surgery recovery can be largely shaped by how well you prepare your home beforehand. A few smart adjustments prior to surgery can make daily life easier and reduce the risk of falls during the early stages of healing.

Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn, a highly experienced hip surgeon with offices in New York, New York, and Stamford, Connecticut, will advise you on how to get everything ready before your procedure. 

Planning Ahead for Life After Hip Surgery

After hip surgery, your movement will likely be limited for a period of time, and you may need to use a walker or cane. It will help to have a support system in place. Ask a family member, friend, or caregiver to assist with meals, errands, and household chores during the first few weeks so you can focus on resting.

Once you have your support lined up, the next step is making practical changes around your home to make everyday tasks more manageable.

Safety First – Preventing Falls

Falls can be dangerous after surgery and slow down your recovery. Take time to:

• Remove loose rugs that could slip underfoot
• Clear clutter from hallways and walking areas
• Make sure rooms and stairways are well-lit, especially at night
• Install grab bars in the bathroom if possible

Setting Up a Recovery Space

If your bedroom is upstairs, think about setting up a temporary sleeping space on the main floor. This helps you avoid frequent trips up and down stairs in the first weeks after surgery. 

Choose a sturdy chair with arms for sitting, and keep essentials like water, medication, and your phone close by.

Bathroom and Kitchen Adjustments

Small changes can make a big difference:

• Use a chair and a non-slip mat in the shower
• Consider a raised toilet seat to make sitting and standing easier 
• Move frequently used kitchen items to counter height so you can avoid bending or reaching overhead

Plan Ahead for a Smoother Recovery

A well-prepared home and someone to help you out will allow you to heal with less stress. Learn more about hip surgery and recovery planning by scheduling a consultation with Dr. McLawhorn at 212-606-1065 (New York) or 203-705-2113 (Stamford).