Globally the Covid 19 pandemic has become one of the most significant health crisis, especially for senior citizens. Seniors are, comparatively at a higher risk of getting affected by the infection, as well as recovering from the virus.
As you age your immune systems tend to weaken, making it more difficult to fight off infections. And when contracted, infections also take a more serious toll on your body as you grow older. Moreover, infected patients who end up in intensive care for a long period of time can become weak.
When you contract the virus, the respiratory system is one of the worst-hit systems in your body. For the elderly, it can result in extreme weakness and breathlessness. Inflammation in older people can also be more intense, causing organ damage. For most, recovery from the virus includes exhaustion, fatigue, and loss of muscle strength, among other systems. Usually, it takes two to six weeks for most individuals to recover from the infection. However, for some patients, certain symptoms may last for weeks or even months.
One of the ways to beat and bounce back from the virus is to include some level of physiotherapy and pulmonary rehabilitation in your daily routine. Doctors and experts recommend performing regular physio and breathing exercises -Covid and also as a preventive measure. One needs some motivation to look after oneself. Here are some pointers that can help you bounce back to your full potential.
- Get started with simple bed exercises either under the guidance of an expert or by yourself. This will help strengthen the muscles and restore your physical health.
- Practice frequent posture changes to ensure smooth muscle and joint movement.
- Regular exercise boosts lung health, so it is important to include some kind of physical activity in your daily routine. For example, practice yoga or take a walk, no matter how small.
- Practice breathing exercises involving the diaphragm. This can help restore and improve your lung capacity after the infection. Deep breathing also helps you clear out mucus and other fluids.
- If you suffer from shortness of breath, experts suggest ‘proning’- a way of lying on your stomach. This helps clear the lungs, as well as improve lung capacity and oxygen levels.
- Keep yourself busy and engage in hobbies that relax you.
- And lastly, eat and sleep right. Believe it or not, a healthy diet and, a good night’s sleep can do wonders for you.
We know that with pandemics, people are wary of stepping out, even for important medical appointments. In situations like these, seeking out physiotherapy sessions online might be your best bet.
Please note that before carrying out any kind of physical therapy or even breathing exercises, it is advisable to consult a doctor or an expert who can carry out a comprehensive assessment before you do any kind of exercise.
In the end do not get panicky, after the doctor clears you from Covid infection. Be patient and follow the above procedures for getting your strength and immunity back.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
25th January 2022.