Assessment of social support provided during preparation for hip arthroplasty in patients aged 65 years and older

Abstract

Introduction: The hip joint is prone to degenerative changes leading to osteoarthritis. When conservative treatment fails, hip arthroplasty is performed to relieve pain and restore daily functionality. Psychological and social support from family and healthcare providers during preoperative preparation plays a key role in hospitalization and recovery. Aim: To assess social support provided to patients over 65 years of age qualified for hip arthroplasty. Material and Methods: The study involved 100 patients aged over 65 qualified for hip replacement based on physical and radiographic assessments. Data were collected via a diagnostic survey using a self-designed questionnaire, the ADL Scale, and the Krystyna Kmiecik-Baran Social Support Scale. Results: Most participants were retirees reporting good living and economic conditions. High levels of pain and preoperative stress were reported. Almost all patients were independent in daily activities; independence did not correlate with sociodemographic factors or pain. Greater physical activity correlated with lower pain levels. Participants demonstrated strong social bonds with loved ones and the therapeutic team across emotional, evaluative, instrumental, and informational domains. Social support levels showed no statistically significant relationship with physical condition, stress, pain, or sociodemographic variables. Conclusions: Patients exhibited high levels of social support from family and healthcare staff. This study highlights the importance of social support during surgical preparation, providinga foundation for future research.