People go to the hospital for acute illness, surgery, or chronic conditions to get better. But, many times people who are treated take a step back in strength and independence. 'Functional decline is considered one of the top complications of hospitalizations in older adults" (King, 2006).
"One of the most important moves a hospitalized patient can make is to simply get moving again as quickly as possible, to whatever extent possible. Older people are at an increased risk typically because they start at a lower base line, so there is less reserve" (Mayo Clinic, 2012).
Hospital staff and physicians can be focused on the acute episode happening in the hospital, so it is important to be proactive and address activity with your physician. If you or your family member is on bed rest ask what activities you can do in bed to keep up strength.. Find out why you are on bed rest and if it is possible and safe to get into a chair with assistance. Many times aids do not have the time to walk people as far as they can. Ask if it is safe for family to walk the patient. Take note of how far you or your family walked and try to walk a little farther with time. Ask for physical therapy early in the process. Do not wait days to begin physical therapy upon discharge, by then it may be too late. It is always easier to maintain strength than to get it back.
Falls are another risk in hospitalized patients. So make sure it is safe to get out of bed or to get your family member out of bed. Actively advocate for them to get up as soon as safely possible and walk, walk, walk. it could be the single best thing to increase the immune system, increase strength, combat constipation, and put you or your family on the road to recovery!
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