INPATIENT BOOKLET
DECONDITIONING - YOUR GUIDE TO STAYING WELL IN HOSPITAL AND PREVENTING FALLS & PRESSURE ULCERS
WHAT IS DECONDITIONING?
Deconditioning is the decline in physical and mental functioning due to inactivity or bed rest. It may affect many systems in the body.
- Deconditioning may happen in hospital as we are often in bed for a lot of the time. This inactivity may cause reduced muscle strength and physical function, increased risk of falls, pressure damage and loss of motivation. This may mean a longer stay in hospital, away from home. It may lead to getting infections, losing weight, reduced mobility and even sarcopenia. Some people may become more dependent and need more care, and equipment when they leave the hospital.
- Sarcopenia is a muscle disease leading to loss of muscle mass, strength and physical function. It can make you more likely to fall, become less physically able and develop pressure sores. Getting older is the biggest cause of sarcopenia, but having multiple medical conditions, not eating and drinking well and being less active in hospital can also cause it. The great news is that sarcopenia is preventable, treatable and reversible!
- Following the advice in this leaflet can help to reduce your risk.
In Wales, there is a beautiful word: “Cwtch.” Literally, it means a hug, but in the Welsh language, it also conveys a sense of safety, warmth, and protection. It’s a cherished word, but in our hospitals, the instinct to "cwtch" our patients, especially our older, more vulnerable ones can sometimes come with unintended consequences. The result can be deconditioning.
