Resources for Caregivers, Partners, Family and Friends

My friend recently had an amputation. What can I say to them when I see them?

While many people worry that they will say the wrong thing, the most important thing is to simply be there and listen. Ask them how they are doing -- they may give you a short answer or a long answer. The important thing is that you want to know. Let them know you are grieving with them, if that seems appropriate to mention. Follow their cue about how they are feeling about the amputation.

My spouse/partner recently had an amputation and is unwilling to discuss their feelings with me. What can I do?

They may need time and space to process their feelings. They may not want to burden you with how they are feeling. You can find more about how to support them in our article Effects of An Amputation on a Partnership – Partner Perspective. If your partner is seeing a prosthetist and/or clinical therapy specialist, you can speak to them privately about your concerns -- they may be able to point you in the direction of support for both your partner and you.

How can I help my spouse/partner/family member/friend reach their goals, both in their physical and mental recovery after an amputation?

If the patient asks you to attend their appointment with them, try to go if possible, it can be helpful for them to have another person present. During the process of getting a prosthetic device, there is a lot to take in, so it can be helpful to have two sets of ears to hear all the instructions, tips and suggestions. If there are things you can do to help the recovery process, like remind them of what you both learned about taking care of their residual limb, or when they are supposed to take their pain medication, that can be very helpful. With their mental recovery, just be there for them. You can also mention any concerns you have about the patient to their prosthetist and/or clinical therapy specialist.

Are there any programs/resources that provide financial assistance for prosthetic care?

Yes. We’ve provided a list of charitable organizations and groups that help those who are uninsured or unable to absorb the cost of their prosthetic care. Please check under "Third Party Resources" below or you can read more in our article, Organizations That Provide Financial and Emotional Support to People with a Limb Difference.

Resources for Caregivers, Partners, Family and Friends

Getting Started

Providing Support

Funding Prosthetic Rehabilitation

FAQs

Featured Patients

Third Party Resources

Magazines

Advocacy & Assistance Groups

Active Life Groups

For Children

Drop Us a Line