How Assistive Bathroom Devices Made My Post-Surgery Recovery Easier

Adding toilet handrails and a shower seat to my bathroom helped me in my at-home surgery recovery.

HOME RECOVERY

Alysa Olson

7/3/20241 min read

brown wooden doll on white ceramic toilet bowl
brown wooden doll on white ceramic toilet bowl

The Challenge of Post-Surgery Bathroom Independence

After every major surgery, the bathroom becomes an unexpectedly daunting place. The simple task of sitting down and standing up from the toilet seems impossible, and showering without support feels downright dangerous. It's a period when even the most mundane activities require careful planning and assistance.

A Thoughtful Gift from My Sister

Knowing about my upcoming surgery, my sister decided to help me out in a way I hadn't thought of. She gifted me toilet safety rails and a shower seat. I thought these were something for elderly patients. However, these assistive devices turned out to be invaluable during my recovery period. The toilet safety rails provided the support I needed to sit and stand up from the toilet by myself. The shower seat, on the other hand, made showering a safe and stress-free experience.

Regaining Confidence and Independence

Even though I only used the toilet safety rails and shower seat for a short period, they had a significant impact on my recovery. When my husband returned to work, I felt confident that I could manage my bathroom needs independently. These assistive gifts played a huge role in helping me regain my sense of independence and confidence during a challenging time.

Conclusion

In retrospect, those assistive devices were more than just practical tools; they were a crucial part of my healing journey. They allowed me to navigate daily tasks with greater ease and less anxiety. If you or a loved one is facing surgery, consider investing in similar assistive devices. They might just make the recovery process a bit smoother and a lot more comfortable.