Chapter 18 Movement

Physical Benefits of Activity Improves the functioning of body systems: –Respiratory –Circulatory –Digestive –Excretory –Musculoskeletal

Physiological Effect of Exercise Enhances mental acuity and mood. Promotes socialization. Helps avoid multiple health problems: –Atherosclerosis, obesity, joint immobility, pneumonia, constipation, pressure ulcers, depression, and insomnia

Factors Affecting the Maintenance of an Active State in the Elderly Decreased cardiac output Reduced breathing capacity and efficiency Delayed oxygen diffusion Decrease in muscle mass, strength, and movement Bone brittleness Poor vision and hearing

Factors Affecting the Maintenance of an Active State in the Elderly (cont.) Social isolation Skin alterations Lower BMR Higher prevalence of chronic disease Reduced income

Factors Exercise Programs Should Address Cardiovascular Endurance –The ability of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels to deliver oxygen to all body cells. Flexibility –The ability to freely move muscles and joints through their range of motion. Strength Training –Challenging the muscles to enhance strength and endurance.

Benefits of Physical Activity for Older Adults Lowering blood pressure Maintaining muscle strength Preventing falls Aiding lymphatic circulation Sharpening mental acuity Elevating mood Improving digestion and elimination

Calculating Maximum and Target Heart Rates Maximum heart rate = age Target heart rate = maximum heart rate x 75% Target heart rate range = 65% to 80% of maximum heart rate

Functions Improved by Physical Exercise Body tone Circulation Appetite Digestion Elimination Respiration Immunity Sleep Self-concept

Assisting the Elderly with Exercise Exercise all body joints through their normal range of motion at least three times daily. Support the joint and distal limb during the exercise. Do not force the joint past the point of resistance.

Deleterious Effects of Inactivity Changes in physiologic function Increased risk of complications Changes in mood and self concept Increased dependency Reduced opportunities for socialization

Nursing Interventions for Inactivity Identify patients at high risk for developing complications from inactivity. Implement interventions to prevent inactivity. Implement a reconditioning program for persons with chronic deconditioning.

Source Eliopoulos, C. (2005). Gerontological Nursing, (6 th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins (ISBN ).