How to prepare your home for neurosurgery recovery

Sleep somewhere that avoids stairs for the first week if possible. A recliner or well-supported bed helps after a craniotomy or ACDF, when lying flat can feel uncomfortable.

Remove obvious trip hazards: loose rugs, cables across walkways, cluttered floors. After brain or spinal surgery, balance can be temporarily off and a fall can undo weeks of recovery.

Prepare easy meals in advance — freezer meals, easy-to-open snacks, plenty of fluids within reach. Cooking is often the first activity that feels overwhelming.

Sort out medications before you leave hospital. Get scripts filled, set up a weekly pill organiser, and know exactly when to stop things like anti-seizure medication or pain relief.

Arrange transport for follow-up appointments, since driving is restricted after most neurosurgical operations. And do not underestimate how much rest you will need in week one — clear the diary, decline visitors, and let recovery be your only job.