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Healing Surroundings: The Role of Environment in the Recovery Process

Most of us think that the ordeal ends at the surgical table and the moment of discharge from the hospital. After all, we want to put the unpleasant experience of surgery or an illness behind us as soon as possible. But contrary to popular belief, that’s when the process of healing and recovery begins.

Dr. Micheal Macdonald, a Singapore-based heart specialist mentions the importance of post-operative care on his website. He says that recovery in the form of rehabilitation is crucial in assisting patients in regaining their strength and health and enabling them to return to everyday life. It also plays a vital role in pain management and is a crucial part of the healing process. What Dr. Macdonald says holds ground in Samiksha Jha’s case.

Why Complete Recovery is Important?

Samiksha Jha aged 33 underwent a hysterectomy in February 2023 and although she was discharged from the hospital within three days she was asked to refrain from strenuous activities and maintain restrictions like sitting on a chair and or not carrying anything heavy for almost a month and a half. Once at home, Samiksha couldn’t avoid doing some of the chores and it resulted in her developing complications for which she had to be readmitted. “I wish I had taken my recovery process seriously and had taken adequate precautions,” admits a repentant Samiksha.

But is Samiksha solely to be blamed for the relapse?

When it comes to recovery, the influence of the environment should not be underestimated. The type of space, namely the home, hospital room, or rehabilitation center, can significantly impact the physical and emotional well-being of a person during the recovery journey depending on the condition of the person. Creating a healing environment that supports and nurtures individuals can enhance the recovery process and promote overall wellness.

Ways to Make the Environment at Home Recovery Friendly

1. Physical Comfort and Safety-First things first. For a person to recover faster his surroundings need to provide adequate comfort and safety. This includes comfortable and ergonomic furniture, which doesn’t pose any hazards or cause accidents and allows easy movement.
2. Go green-Integrating natural elements like natural light, airiness, and greenery in the environment have been shown to have a positive impact on recovery. They enhance the mood, reduce stress and accelerate healing. Positioning the bed in proximity to all the elements can be very therapeutic during recovery.
3. Calmness and Privacy-Excessive noise levels can be detrimental to recovery. Ensure that the room where a person is convalescing is quiet. Privacy is also crucial for a person’s emotional well-being. Providing curtains, screens, or private rooms can make a person feel comfortable, respected, and focus on their healing without unnecessary distractions. However, it should be kept in mind that they don’t feel lonely or isolated.
4. Beautification- Placing family photos and other favorite things of a person like pillows, blankets, or mementos. etc around them gives them comfort, security, and a sense of belonging to aid better recovery. The surrounding can be additionally beautified with some artwork.
5. Easy access to hospital and health services- For long-term recovery, it is crucial that a person doesn’t have to go travel very far to the hospital for follow-up visits, further investigations, or therapy sessions. This can put unnecessary physical and mental strain on the person as well as the family members.

Are Rehabilitation Centers a Wise Choice?

If it is challenging to follow the above-mentioned tips then a rehabilitation or a continuum care center can be an intelligent and practical choice. These centers are designed to be inclusive, accessible, and supportive of the recovery process. They provide 24/7 Doctor, nurse, and caregiver services with in-house multidisciplinary therapy and dietary support. Additionally, these centers have a very homely atmosphere and facilitate social connections through group activities with other patients that make a person feel very comfortable and provide the emotional support they require to heal better.

Source-

https://www.drmmacdonald.com/the-importance-of-post-operative-care-and-recovery/#:~:text=Post%2Doperative%20rehabilitation%20is%20crucial,part%20of%20your%20healing%20process.