Aids to Assist

Bathing: Your therapist or nurse will show you how to use a shower bench or chair while bathing to prevent you from bending your hip too much. Use a long-handled sponge, shower hose or hand-held showerhead to make bathing easier. You may also want to consider having grab bars installed in your shower or bathtub to provide support as you get in and out.

Hand Grips: Install handrails or safety bars next to stairs. If you already have these in place, secure them firmly before your surgery.

Going to the Bathroom: Use a raised toilet seat to keep your hip in a more stable position and minimize bending. You can also purchase a plastic raised toilet seat with built-in handgrips. Besides adding 5" to toilet height, its unique contoured shape will provide optimal comfort and help you rise easily.

Chair and Bed Elevators: Before surgery, choose a stable chair with 2 arms and a firm back to use during the early phases of your recovery. Add a firm seat cushion or pillow that allows you to comfortably sit with your knees lower than your hips. Sit on these firm pillows also when riding in a car - and again, make sure that your knees are lower than your hips.

Dressing: To avoid bending, try to dress while sitting on a chair. A sock aid and long-handled shoehorn can assist you in putting on and taking off your socks, stockings and shoes. Other devices can help you put on your pants and underwear.
 

Housekeeping and Cooking: Use a long-handled reacher or grabber for objects too high or low for you to reach without stretching or bending. Before your surgery, store essential items at a convenient height. You can also carry small items in a basket on your walker.