GERIATRIC SYNDROMES: IMMOVILITY

Immobility is a common pathway by which a host of diseases and problems in the elderly produce further disability. Persons who are chronically ill, aged, or disabled are more susceptible to the adverse effects of prolonged bed rest, immobilization, and inactivity.

The effects of immobility aren’t confined to only one body system.

It could be pshyical:  Muscle wasting, Contractures, Muscle pain, Osteoporosis, Pressure sores, Hypothermia, Aspiration pneumonia, Constipation, Incontinence, Deep vein thrombosis and Anorexia ect.

Or Psychological and Social : Isolation, loss of independence, Sensory deprivation, depression, delirium and dementia

It may later cause a lot of complications.

Immobility in the elderly often cannot be prevented, but many of its adverse effects can be.

 Improvements in mobility are possible for the immobile older adults:  A small improvement in mobility can decrease the incidence and severity of complications.

Would be usefull to  develop and implement a care plan that specifically addresses immobility.

* nursing should also document range-of-motion exercises and progressive mobility activities in the medical record. They should periodically summarize the results, noting the resident's overall progress and whether the old person is using assistive devices.

* Nursing staff should teach residents little ways to get exercise even while bedridden.

* Staff at the nursing home should avoid putting a resident on bedrest: the elderly  should be on bedrest for only the shortest amount of time possible.

* If a old person is not progressing as expected, the nursing home staff should find out why

*  It's necessary Advice about  a well-balanced diet rich in proteins and minerals.

Another cares could be: postural changes, massage, good hygene…