Exercise is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle at any age. A person is more at risk of being bedridden if she is elderly because of the more frequent occurrence of certain diseases that can limit movement. For example, Alzheimer's disease, various types of cancer and osteoarthritis might be more common in an elderly person and leave her bedridden. Exercising in the bed for an elderly patient is important for her body and might even help her live longer.
Immobility System Effects
Being bedridden and immobile can impact every system in the body. Systems affected range from the integumentary system, or skin, to the cardiovascular system. If an elderly person is bedridden and immobile, skin can break down more easily, leading to bed sores. These sores can occasionally become infected. Also, the Denver Mayor's Office of Employee Assistance indicates that exercise is important to protect an elderly patient from aging blood vessels. If an aging patient is bedridden and immobile, blood pools in the veins and can clot and travel to the brain, heart or lungs, causing a stroke or death.
Purpose
As stated above, exercising for an elderly patient in bed positively impacts all body systems. The purpose of physical activity is to put joints through all ranges of motion to maintain movement and flexibility. Exercise is good for the musculoskeletal system as complete immobility causes a decrease in muscle size, contractures of joints and bone weakness. Movement of limbs might also increase muscle strength. Exercising also stimulates circulation, improves coordination and increases the patient's tolerance for additional activity. Always seek medical advice before starting an exercise program with an elderly patient in bed.
Types
Several types of exercises exist for bedridden elderly patients. Passive exercises can be done by a medical professional or caregiver when the patient needs complete assistance. Passive exercises are usually range-of-motion exercises and help joints and muscles stay flexible. These exercises will not strengthen muscles or bones, as there is no voluntary movement or resistance. Active exercises are done by the patient without help and can enhance muscle strength. Resistive exercises are done by the elderly patient and involve pulling or pushing against force. Finally, isometric exercises are done by the bedridden patient by contracting and relaxing muscles while the limb is kept in a fixed position. Isometric exercises are meant to enhance muscle strength. A medical professional can identify types of exercises that can be done for or by an elderly, bedridden patient.
Psychosocial Impact
According to the Caring for Aging Parent website, depression is common in the elderly and should be quickly managed. An elderly person is dealing with a lot of issues as she ages, such as the loss of friends and family, a possible inability to travel and ailing health. If she is bedridden, she might also have a low self-image and a feeling of powerlessness. Exercising might help increase self-confidence and body image, combat boredom, increase social interaction and reduce the risk of depression related to feelings of powerlessness and reduced stimulation.
Member Comments