Cataract surgery is a simple procedure typically conducted on an outpatient basis. While the surgery could boost your senior loved one’s vision in the long run, it’s common to be worried about what happens upon returning home. Here are a few things your loved one can do after cataract surgery to recover quickly.
Arrange for Transportation
Cataract surgeries involve anesthesia, which makes it difficult for seniors to drive after the procedure. Your loved one may also experience blurred vision that interferes with the ability to see properly on the road. Make sure your loved one has someone available to accompany him or her to and from the procedure.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one attend doctor’s appointments. Home care service experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Expect Some Initial Vision Changes
While some people see perfectly clearly immediately after their surgery, others might notice some initial blurriness once the eye shield is removed. Blurred vision occurs because the eyes need time to learn how to use the intraocular lens that replaced the natural one. Your loved one may also notice some brief distortions, such as wavy lines in vision, but these should go away shortly.
Avoid Strenuous Activities at First
While your loved one should be able to perform most daily activities after the cataract surgery, he or she should avoid tasks that could place too much pressure on the eyes. Your loved one should also try to avoid heavy lifting or bending over at the waist for the first week or two after the surgery. If necessary, plan ahead by having someone help your loved one with tasks such as grocery shopping and cleaning.
If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of homecare. Phoenix seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.
Protect the Eye from Potential Irritants
Your loved one can bathe or shower after the surgery. However, it’s crucial to prevent infections that occur when water gets in the eyes. For the first week, your loved one should avoid swimming and going into hot tubs. Your parent may also need to wear an eye shield while sleeping to avoid accidentally rubbing the eye. When venturing outside, make sure your loved one wears sunglasses to protect the eyes from the harsh glare of sunlight.
Follow the Aftercare Instructions
Your loved one should receive aftercare instructions from the doctor that detail how to care for the eye after returning home. Typically, this will involve using special eye drops several times a day. Set an alarm on your loved one’s phone so he or she remembers to use the drops. Assist your loved one if he or she is uncomfortable putting drops into the eye. Then watch for unusual symptoms, such as increased redness or swelling, that require immediate medical attention.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior home care. Phoenix, AZ, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. Call us today to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.