For an elderly individual, a hip replacement is more than a surgical procedure; it is a gateway to restored mobility and the elimination of chronic pain. However, the surgery is only half the battle. The weeks following discharge are the most critical. In 2026, the trend has shifted heavily toward In-Home Post-Operative Rehabilitation, allowing seniors to recover in a familiar environment while utilizing “Hospital-at-Home” protocols that rival the care found in inpatient facilities.

1. Setting the Stage: The “Pre-hab” and Home Modification

Rehabilitation begins before the patient even enters the operating room. Preparing the home environment is the first step in preventing the most common post-op complication: the accidental fall.

Critical Home Adjustments:

• The “Recovery Zone”: Set up a primary living area on the ground floor to avoid stairs for the first 2–3 weeks. This area should include a firm chair with armrests (avoid soft sofas) and a high