Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.
Over 800,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed annually in the U.S., with many patients in their 70s and 80s. The question, **should an 80 year old have knee replacement surgery?**, is complex, focusing on a patient's overall health rather than just their age.
While most total knee replacements are performed on patients between 60 and 80 years old, the decision is increasingly driven by individual circumstances rather than age alone. The question of what is the best age for knee replacement is therefore best answered by evaluating your unique health needs, lifestyle, and a detailed discussion with your orthopedic surgeon.
While the average age for knee replacement surgery in the U.S. is around 65, this number is trending younger. The decision on what age do knee replacements happen is complex, based on pain, disability, and individual circumstances, not just a number on a calendar.
According to a 2023 study published in *BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders*, older patients who had a knee replacement experienced significant improvement in physical function and pain, despite having lower function pre-surgery. The question of whether a 70-year-old should have a knee replacement is less about chronological age and more about overall health, potential benefits, and personal quality of life goals.
