Seniors and Cataracts: How to Reduce Recovery Time After Cataract Surgery

July 6, 2016Lillian FunkBlog, Senior Care in Loudoun VA

Senior Care in Loudoun VA

For some older adults with cataracts, surgery is necessary. It will help remove the cataract from their eye and give them back their vision. Most surgeries can take as little as 10 minutes, provided there are no other complications. Afterwards, the elder will most likely feel groggy from the use of anesthesia or sedation, which can last for up to an hour.

Senior Care in Loudoun VA They will be given a pair of sunglasses to help prevent eye sensitivity to glare and sunlight, but will need to be driven home. A family member or senior care provider should be waiting for them after the surgery to help them safely get home.

To help your loved one recovery easily at home, here are some ideas to help cut down on the amount of time it takes them to recover.

Avoid bending down because this could put extra pressure on the eyes.
Do not drive, especially on the first day.
Vomiting or sneezing after surgery can make the recovery time last much longer. If possible, the elder should avoid doing both.
Avoid using a hot tub or swimming after the surgery because it could cause an infection.
The first few weeks post-surgery can result in the eyes being extremely sensitive. Try to avoid exposing the eyes to wind, dust, or grime.
Watch out when walking in order to avoid bumping into doors, walls, or other items.
Do not rub your eyes because this could cause the eyes to become infected, both after surgery and in general.
Avoid heavy lifting or other strenuous activities prior to cataract surgery.

The doctor will provide the elder with a list of things that can be done to help your loved one recover from the surgery. If surgery is needed for both eyes, the doctor will usually complete surgery on one eye, wait a few weeks for it to heal, and then proceed to completing surgery on the other eye.
Surgery is one of the most effective ways to have cataracts removed. In fact, studies show that almost 90 percent of those that underwent cataract surgery had excellent outcomes, even those with other eye problems. To help your loved one quickly and easily recover from the surgery, an elderly care provider may be needed to monitor the senior’s progress and help with chores, cooking, and driving until they are able to do so by themselves.