Depending on the type of surgery a person goes through, they could either be better in a few days or be bedridden for months. Regardless of the severity, they will likely need some help around the house for a while. If you have a loved one who has recently undergone major surgery, there are many ways for you to support them during this time. This short guide will cover some of the important things you should do.
Take Over Certain Responsibilities
One of the most important things you can do for your loved one during this time is to take over certain responsibilities they can no longer fulfill. Doing tasks such as making meals, taking care of their pets, and doing general yardwork will be great ways to help out. However, if they need more than that and you have the time to be there for them, you can do things like help them to the bathroom, run errands, and watch over their kids.
Help Them Cope With the Changes
If you can’t physically be there to help them, you can always call them to talk them through their struggles and ease their mind about certain things. Anyone who goes through a major surgery will have tons of questions buzzing through their head. One thing you can do is read up on what they went through or talk to a doctor to learn more about it.
For example, if your loved one recently got a colostomy, they will likely have a lot of questions regarding recovering from ostomy surgery. If you know that information, you can be the one to help them through each step of the process.
Find Ways To Keep Their Spirits Up
If you are a bit squeamish or can’t help your loved one in a medical capacity, that doesn’t mean you’re useless. You can be a positive distraction for them. Most people who have recently undergone surgery don’t want to discuss it constantly. They’ll likely want to find other things to do and talk about.
One thing you could do is find some of their favorite movies and watch them together. You could also come by and talk to them for a while. Find a way to make them smile, even if the pain is unbearable at the moment. At the very least, they’ll appreciate the effort.
Be There for Them
Regardless of what you do to support a loved one after a major surgery, the key is to be there for them. Even if you don’t do anything else in this guide, hanging around will mean a lot to them. After surgery, many people feel alone, so having loved ones come by and visit them or talk to them on the phone can make all the difference. Don’t hesitate to put in some time with them. Neither of you will regret it.
