If you are planning a surgery or a hospital stay, it’s important to consider rehab, short for rehabilitation. This is especially important if the surgery involves restoration of physical mobility for example a hip or knee replacement. Many older adults, especially those living alone, can benefit from the extra attention to help the return home as independent as possible. Research indicates that individuals who are followed for at least six months after a hospital discharge had a higher probability of continuing to live at home than returning to a nursing home or another type of community. Here are two recommendations: 1) If your physician does not discuss the benefits of rehabilitation following surgery, ask, and 2) Check with your insurance prior to surgery and go visit several rehab facilities so you can choose where you go post surgery for rehab. You’ll be glad you took proactive steps to allow you to return home and remain independent.
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