The thought of your elderly parent having to undergo heart surgery can be frightening, but learning everything that you can about the procedure and how it could impact your parent can ease some of this anxiety. By knowing as much as possible you can not only know what to expect, but also feel more prepared to give your parent the level of care that they will need after the surgery. One of the best ways to get this information is to have a conversation with your parent’s doctor and ask important questions.
Some of the questions that you should ask your parent’s doctor before they get heart surgery include:
- What are the risks associated with this type of surgery?
- Are there any alternative procedures available?
- Why was this specific procedure selected for this senior?
- What will happen during the surgery?
- What is the goal for this procedure?
- How long will the surgery take?
- What does the senior need to do to prepare for the surgery?
- What type of care will they need following the surgery?
- Why was this specific timing selected for the surgery?
- Is there another time when factors such as weather, germs, and other issues might make it more or less optimal for the surgery?
- What recovery time should the senior expect?
- What risks do they face after surgery?
- What care can reduce those risks?
- What dietary changes will they need to make?
- What symptoms should you look out for during recovery?
- When can they be active again?
- What medications may they need to take after surgery?
- What are the possible side effects of these medications?
Starting senior care can be a fantastic choice to help your elderly parent enjoy the highest quality of life possible as they age in place. A senior home care services provider can be with your parent on a customized schedule to ensure that they have access to the care, support, and assistance that they need. This means that they are able to manage their needs and challenges in the ways that are right for them.
Through a set of highly personalized services this care provider can help your parent to stay healthy, happy, safe, and comfortable while also pursuing a lifestyle that is as active, engaged, and independent as possible. As their family caregiver this can give you tremendous peace of mind knowing that your parent is in good hands both when you are able to be with them and when you are not.
If you or an aging loved one are consideringsenior care in St. Paul, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
