Wellness

[Laura14]

My mother is having surgery next week and probably recuperating at my house.  Don't think she is going to do a 6 hour drive back to her home in FL with her husband the day after.  It's an overnight stay and then home with a 2 week check up back at the hospital.   

She mentioned she is wondering how to keep herself and her husband occupied in what may be a 2 week stay.  This is my first experience with this level of illness with a parent and they are obviously out of their own home without their own "stuff" around them.  

I don't know what to prepare to have for her (food, entertainment, household items, etc...) and you guys were so wonderful with her birthday suggestions that she absolutely loved, I thought I would ask again so I could have what she might need.

Anything you would suggest, I would love to read.  Thank you!     

[JeanLouiseFinch]

Depending on the extent of her surgery and pace of her recuperation, she may not want to do much of anything, at least in the beginning.  If she's in pain and on meds for it, she may be sleepier than usual.  Being able to sit out on the porch or patio might be all she's up to at first.  As she progresses, maybe a walk around the neighborhood and eventually maybe a little walk in a park or mall, maybe go to a movie.  It's hard to gauge something like this since it's new territory.

As for what to plan for menu ideas, that also depends a bit on her surgery and aftercare plan.  Her doctor or nurse will go over that with her prior to discharge.  You could ask your mom what she and her husband would like to have in the house, but that could all change after her surgery.

Household items, they should probably pack their most needed items as if they were going on vacation somewhere.  Depending on your mom's level of strength and ability, you might consider renting a shower chair if there's a chance she may be unusually weak or have limited abilities at first.

It's good for you to be concerned and want to prepare, but you might be better off talking with a nurse who knows how the particular surgery could affect a patient.  She can also make recommendations on activity levels and appropriate diet, if there is one.  If your mom can return to a normal diet immediately, ask her what she and her husband would like you to have in the house.

[Group 5 minus 1]

Ask!

[qualitygal]

Does he or she have a lap top?  Retired?  

Puzzle while setting should help keep them occupied.  T.V.  They could bring some books for reading too.  Don't think they need to go out.  

Find out what they like to eat, snack on, for as close to home as that is, it'll help.  Think of yourself, as a temp B & B. Temporary. 

Card game?  Be sure and ask them what they do at their house, that they can do at yours.  Depending on Doc., and med's, and how they'll get about will have a lot to do with it.  HTH

[D Kay]

It all depends, of course, on her level of ability following surgery.  You might consider if she is able, a shower bench for use in the shower or to sit in front of the bathroom sink to bathe.  A bedside table within easy reach is always useful to serve meals or access items frequently used such as lip balm, lotion, etc.

[fthunt]

Mom is probably more concerned about hubby just sitting around - - that will make her nervous - so how about supplying your home with puzzles with subject of 'p' being something of interest to him.  Also, if he likes cross word puzzles - I believe they have little booklets (check magazine sections) of various word games, etc.  Even some kids word/picture games are interesting = Find Waldo

LOL

[SandPiper]

The hospital should have a social worker that can help you with your mom’s needs post surgery. They should also have any diet restrictions, if your mother needs that. 

I would suggest that your mother bring the things that she uses daily, toiletries, skin care, etc. Also any comforting items like her pillow and favorite loungewear. 

As for entertainment and household items I think you should wait to see how your mother feels. And take one day at a time. 

[LTT1]

@Laura14

Good suggestions are here.

i will think on it and read what others post.

The idea of renting (?) a shower chair sounds good.

I would need a heating pad...no matter what!

For meals you might want to order meat balls and freeze ahead. If there is an Italian place that makes Italian dishes, they might do those for you to freeze.

Will add more later.

[Ketra]

     Ask your mother what they like to eat for breakfast, lunch & dinner..(chicken salad, pasta....) then make enough for leftovers. If you can’t cook, there’s always ready made foods at Costco or other stores. Does she like to read, be on her IPAD, movies, T.V. or do puzzles? Ask what do they normally do when shut indoors for entertainment. It’s best not to guess about things, and ask them directly what they like as it will make for a more pleasant time for all while she is recuperating. Take each day one at a time, helping your Mom and try and keep her husband busy. Take him on walks, trips to the store when possible so he feels included. You must love your Mom an awful lot to have started this thread. Just be there for her and that will be enough. God bless😊

[wishmoon]

Lots of night lights to luminate their way at night time. If, after her operation, she'll have trouble getting around, rent a rollator (a walker with wheels).

Best of luck to all of you.