The Sequelae of Bed Rest - Elderly Patients Lose Muscle Mass at Three Times the Normal Rate1/11/2017
Research has found that during periods of bed rest at home, elderly patients tend to spend more time than needed resting in bed or sitting.⁴ This stems largely from a lack of confidence and fear of self-injury inspired by the sudden loss of strength and fitness. After the injury has healed or illness has abated, many elderly patients still experience considerable risks associated with their period of rest. Rate of recovery from disuse weakness is slower than the rate of loss. With intensive exercise, patients take 2.5 times longer than the period of rest to regain lost strength.⁶ The fact of the matter is that most elderly patients do not engage in intensive exercise after periods of bed rest and are more likely to quietly decrease their daily activities and self-care. Fall injuries, medication errors, and other problems become more likely during the months following bed rest. In-home physical therapy can conveniently develop a safe exercise program that will help elderly patients maximize their recovery. When this program is delivered through Five Star Home Health, Medicare pays 100% of allowable charges. More than 100 Caring Professionals StrongFounded in 2003, Five Star’s team has grown to be more than 100 professionals. Our size better enables us to respond quickly to referrals and to staff your cases with the best experienced personel. References
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