The four-minute video demonstrates six simple mobility exercises, which can be carried out from a sitting position, designed to maintain mobility.
Being active helps to prevent deconditioning, which is a chain reaction of negative effects. For example, inactivity means muscles weaken, so individuals have a greater risk of falling over when they stand up and move around.
Sitting or lying still for too long can also cause pressure ulcers, increase confusion and disorientation and can lead to not eating or drinking enough.
All of these things have the potential to cause further harm and for inpatients, longer hospital stays.
The video has been timed to coincide with the health board’s Active August campaign, which focuses on helping counteract deconditioning – the medical term for the negative impact on your physical and mental health caused by sitting or lying down for long periods of time.
Rebecca Fayle, Clinical Lead Physiotherapist, helped produce the video. She said:
“Deconditioning refers to the loss of physical fitness and function, often occurring during prolonged hospitalisation or as a result of periods of immobilisation.
“Individuals can avoid deconditioning by undertaking small steps to maintain their range of movement and strength. These can include regular mobilisation, functional activities and regular exercises.
“This video includes some basic exercises that can be undertaken by individuals during hospital admissions or at home to maintain their strength and mobility. These exercises provide some stretches and strengthening exercises for upper limbs, trunk and lower limbs.”
Physiotherapist Carys Edmunds, (above), who appears in the video, said:
“I’d just like to say thank you all for the great experience of taking part in promoting exercise and the importance of movement, especially in our busy department.
“Even though I was a little nervous, it ended up being a lot of fun, and I really appreciate the opportunity.
“Hopefully, both patients and staff will gain a lot from the video. It’s so important that we continue to enhance physiotherapy services and highlight how crucial exercise is in preventing deconditioning, particularly in older adults.”
Physiotherapist Ceiron Browning, who worked on the video, said:
“In preparation for the video, having worked in front door services, we really do see the value and importance of exercise and keeping active.
“It’s great to use our passion for conditioning and keeping active to support others and facilitate people going home safe and confident, providing them the knowledge to stay independent.”
You can watch the English version of the video here.
You can watch the Welsh version of the video here.
[Lead image: Swansea Bay University Health Board]
