Home Safety After Hip Surgery

Taking stock of and addressing the possible hazards in your home before you have hip surgery will help make your recovery go smoother. To protect your hip, you must learn safe ways to do everyday tasks.

Clear Your Path

• Move furniture out of your way.

  Remove throw rugs. Tape down electrical cords. Watch out for pets underfoot. Rearrange furniture to give yourself a clear path. Avoid wet and/or slippery floors, and avoid uneven surfaces.

Use Special Equipment

• Take safety precautions in the shower.

  Elevated toilet seats make it easier to get to a standing position. Buy a sock puller to help put on your socks without bending. Buy a shower seat to sit on in the shower reducing the risk of falling. Handrails will help you get into and out of the tub or shower. A long handled grasper will help you reach things without bending or stretching.

Make Use of Nonskid Items

• Rubber-soled shoes help keep you from slipping.

  Rubber soled shoes will help keep you from slipping. Rubber-backed bathmat will not slide out from under when you get out of the shower. Likewise, install a non-slip mat in the bath tub.

Keep Things Handy

• Keep things handy.

  Store canned foods between waist and shoulder level. Keep items you use often within easy reach.

Avoid Stairs if Possible

• Avoid stairs if possible.

  Set up a room downstairs. Arrange it so that you only have to go up and down stairs once a day.