Introduction

Right now, you, your surgeon and the healthcare team, and perhaps your immediate family are the only ones who know you are going to have joint replacement surgery. Before you widen that circle and begin contacting family and friends to tell them you are having joint replacement surgery, be prepared:

• Make a list of people to call, and be prepared to provide as much information as possible - family and friends will appreciate knowing the date of your surgery, the hospital you'll be at and the number of days you expect to be in hospital. Also, you can let them know how long you expect to be recovering at home.
• Some of your friends and family members may ask for more details, particularly about what is involved with joint replacement surgery. If you would like printable information on joint replacement surgery, contact your surgeon or print resource materials from informational websites.
• Let family and friends know whom they can contact, other than you, for information about your surgery and recovery.

Offers of help

Don't be afraid to say "Yes, you can help." As you talk to family and friends and they offer help, take advantage of the tremendous support they can provide. Ask if and when they'd be available on short notice, should you need an extra pair of hands - or a set of wheels.

Also, ask specific people to help with specific tasks. If your sister enjoys cooking, perhaps she would be the best person to bring in a meal one night. If your nephew is looking for a part-time job, perhaps he has the time to help you with the housework. The family next door might be willing to run their snow blower through your drive when they do theirs for a while. Keep a list of potential helpers near the phone.

Below is a potential "needs list" to get you started in thinking about the kinds of things family and friends may be able to help you with as you prepare and recover from surgery.

• Help prepare the home - move furniture, make repairs, install grab bars, remove loose rugs etc.
• Pick up the mail and newspaper
• Mow grass, water outside flowers and plants
• Shovel snow/salt the walk
• Put out/take in trash bins
• Let the dog out
• Let the cat in
• Feed all pets
• Help with housework
• Prepare and deliver a meal
• Do grocery shopping
• Pick up prescriptions
• Help with laundry
• Pick up children at school
• Take children on an outing
• Bring work from the office
• Provide transportation to/from doctor, physical therapy