Following an elective surgery such as a hip or knee replacement, your doctor may suggest you stay in a short-term rehab center to continue your recovery. Most rehabilitation centers will allow you to pre-book a room, giving you the opportunity to plan your stay well in advance. Be informed about your short-term rehab visit with these helpful tips.
What to expect
Rehabilitation is a highly personalized matter. In a short-term rehabilitation center, a team of nurses, therapists, and physicians work together to create a tailored treatment plan for each patient. Depending on your individual needs, you may require therapy treatments such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy. Many short-term rehabilitation centers also provide additional services such as medication management, nutrition and dietary guidance, and even transportation to doctor’s appointments.
What to bring
As you prepare for your short-term rehab stay, you may be wondering what to pack. Since you will be doing recovery exercises each day, therapists recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing and shoes with non-skid rubber soles, such as running shoes. You can also bring books, puzzles, or other activities to enjoy in your downtime. Many short-term rehab centers are designed to be a “home away from home” and feature amenities such as on-campus beauty salons and dining options.
Transitioning back home
The ultimate goal of short-term rehabilitation is to ensure older adults regain their independence and return home safely. Many rehabilitation centers offer at-home rehab care and outpatient rehab services so older adults can continue their therapy exercises even after their short-term stay is over.
As you prepare, consider taking a tour of the senior rehabilitation centers in your area and reserving your short-term rehab stay in advance. Planning your rehabilitation stay ahead of time can give you and your family peace of mind before, during, and after your surgery.
