Quote from: TDoS on Jun 24, 2024, 12:21 PMOn another note, my father is scheduled for an above the knee amputation this week. Does it sound as shitty a thing to happen to someone as it sounds? You are the only other person I know who it has ever happened to.

AbK amputation is way worse than BtK, because the prosthetics, at least the basic ones, are very primitive  and actually get in the way for your most common activity which is making transfers.  Walking with one takes a lot of practice, and your other leg and foot need to be in good shape.   Usually to be successful with them, you have to get the amputation younger, 50 or less.  Physical Therapy is a lot of work and unpleasant.

If he is in good shape and you wanna spend big money, one of the advanced prosthetics with a hydraulic knee and microprocessor controls  are pretty good, but it's a lot to spend and I don't think covered by insurance.  They cover basic prosthetics usually, not the advanced stuff.  About $300K I think, and it may not work for him.

I recommend just getting a good EV wheelchair and a van with a lift and adapted  controls if he still drives.  Better use of your money, a new mini van all fit out maybe $100K.  A little more for EV van.  EV chair, $4K-$8K if you want it to lift and help you stand up.

Falling during transfers is the biggest concern on a daily basis when living alone or even with a partner of similar age.  You should invest in a lift to have at home to get you up off the floor in the event of a fall.  Not that expensive, lots of models available.

RE