Compared to previous generations, today’s seniors, known as baby boomers, are more active and are not the old picture of rocking chair grannies. Despite the fact that they travel, exercise, and enjoy life, there are still physical limitations and precautions concerning any type of surgery. When it comes to hernia surgery, what is the recovery time for seniors?
Age and Hernia Surgery Recovery
The older you are, the more likely you will develop a hernia. This is due to wear and tear on the abdominal muscles. Although it comes with risks for older people, it is still the best way to treat a hernia.
Your surgeon at Michigan Hernia Surgery will provide customized instructions for both pre and post surgery at our office in Royal Oak. Preparing ahead of time and gathering any important assistance for recovery time helps to speed up healing. Of course, healing time is dependent on your overall health and following all the guidelines set by the surgeon. Everyone heals differently.
Whether the patient is you, or an elderly relative, keep in mind what to expect. Recovery tends to be slower for seniors due to age-related factors. There will be more fatigue after surgery and during recovery.
- Someone must drive the patient home after surgery.
- Expect less energy and more fatigue for several days.
- It is essential to get enough rest after surgery to allow for healing.
- Expect discomfort and soreness to last several weeks after the fatigue has improved.
- Don’t expect to move around much for at least the first week.
Tips for Recovery After Hernia Surgery
The goal is to give your body the time it needs to heal before you can expect to be back to normal activities. Don’t rush it.
You would be wise to have someone stay with you during the first few days or weeks you are home. Your hernia surgeon will give clearance when you can get back to regular activities, including driving.
Listen to your body and it will tell you what it needs. Sleep as often as you feel like it. Many seniors gristle at the term elderly, but age takes its toll. Give yourself permission to do nothing for a while.
At the same time, try to move around some. Walking is the best choice, but do not overexert yourself or stress your abdominal muscles. Ask for help when you need it.
It may take six weeks (or longer) to be without any pain.
Above all, gradually build back your strength. This will help with blood circulation and decrease any possibility of surgical complications.
Contact Michigan Hernia Surgery at (248) 551-9090 if you have further questions about hernia surgery recovery time for seniors or to find out if it’s right for you, or utilize our secure online form to request an appointment at our office in Royal Oak.
Sources: Day-case inguinal hernia repair in the elderly: a surgical priority – PubMed (nih.gov)
Recovery from Hernia Mesh Surgery | Patient Recovery Timeline (drugwatch.com)
Hernia Surgery Recovery: Timeline and Coping (verywellhealth.com)
