Navigating senior years.

[Donstar]

It's been a little over three weeks since my second knee replacement.  I can now walk around the house without a walker or cane but still have a lot of healing ahead.  This morning I was able to bring a cup of coffee to my wife in bed.  A few days ago, this coffee would have ended up on the kitchen floor!  Knee replacement surgery is very common and will typically enhance the recipient's future quality of life. However, the recovery process can present significant challenges, pain and discomfort. I encourage anyone facing a recommended total knee replacement to welcome the opportunity.  Just be aware that your body may take several months to fully welcome the new parts! 

[Donstar]

I'm getting out in public more these days and rely on a walker for anything more than short distances.  I am impressed with how kind others are in their efforts to assist when they see me doing the old man walker shuffle!  I find teenagers hanging out at the mall are often the first to get ahead of me to open a door or to offer me the opportunity to get in front of them in a lineup!  I am very fortunate that this is temporary for me and I have a developed a huge appreciation for those seniors struggling to maintain some mobility. Walkers, canes or scooters will assist with mobility but they don't eliminate the challenges.  Chances are the individual using these devices are hurting.  A few kind words of recognition from a stranger can take away the discomfort for a few moments.  I am looking forward to paying forward all of the kindness I have received!