As you reach your senior years the list of surgeries you might have starts to loom. Joint replacements, intestinal explorations, and possible emergency procedures can happen. Medical practice is a marvel. Many of these surgeries save lives or give the chance for a longer period of active living, but they can take a toll on your post-surgery mental health. There can be fear going into surgery, and loneliness during the recovery period.

Some surgeries have a long recovery period, possibly keeping you immobile and confined to your home or short-term care facility. There may be time required with assistive devices such as wheelchairs and walkers. Even this short-term period of reliance on others can prove challenging. Caring for your mental health at this time will help your body heal as well.

Physical comfort for post-surgery mental health

If you are planning on surgery, you can plan for recovery as well. Arrange your space so that you can easily access things you need. Create a station for power cords to phones and tablets. Have remotes accessible. Make sure the path to the bathroom is cleared of obstacles and find out what you may need to safely take a shower or bath.

Pain management is crucial to your post-surgery mental health. Be sure to talk with your doctor about the correct medication timing and dosage. Plan to have ice packs for swelling and a heating pad for other aches and pains. Whatever healing timeline you are given, believe it. Too many people end up hurting themselves by rushing into normal life too quickly. If the doctor says it takes 6 weeks, it takes 6 weeks.

The internet makes taking care of practical needs quite simple. Grocery delivery or pickup can save you time, energy, and money. Get pre-made meals in the freezer. You may even have a group through church or other friends who would be willing to run errands and bring meals to you. Make sure you have someone who can take you to appointments if that is needed.

Other Ideas:

  • Put bills on auto-pay.
  • Hire a housekeeper for your recovery.
  • Find a physical therapist.
  • Figure out what assistive devices you will need.
  • Schedule a phone call with a counselor.

This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each of them with cane in hand because of their age.” – Zechariah 8:4, NIV

Social life

If there is a stack of books you have been meaning to read get them from the library. Are you a puzzle person? Find some new ones. Have a handicraft you want to do more of? Get that stuff ready for convalescing. Keeping your mind and hands busy will help you cope with long stretches of being in the same place.

Reach out to people via phone, email, or snail mail. Ask your friends and family to stop by and visit. Isolation is often the most challenging part of recovery. Keep in touch with people in the way that works best for you.

Be clear about your needs for rest and socialization. People cannot read your mind, so you need to tell them when you need more or have had enough. Clear communication is the best way to prevent loneliness and overstimulation.

When it’s time to get up and going again, pace yourself. It takes time to return to full energy after surgery. Be as slow and steady as the proverbial turtle.

Spiritual care

If you are a constantly busy person, the forced stop of healing may be a surprising gift. Convalescence can be great for your relationship with God. You have more time on your hands for reading the Bible and praying. Consider this time as an invitation to pray, not only for yourself but for others as well. Give the people that you are praying for a call.

Request a pastoral visit pre and post-surgery. Request prayer from other faithful Christians. The community of faith lives beyond the walls of the church. Tell God your fears, your desire and need for healing, and thank Him for all the care He gives through doctors and pastors.

Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. – Isaiah 46:4, NIV

God has promised to care for you from your first to your last breath, and even though old age brings a weaker body, your soul can find strength in His goodness. For additional support, consider counseling. A counselor can help you before and after your surgery. Reach out today to learn more.

Photo:
“Comfy with Coffee”, Courtesy of Sir Manuel, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License