The project, initiated by physiotherapists at SAk, aims to encourage patients to increase their physical activity during hospitalization. “Exercise can be crucial in the recovery process of patients,” says Kristveig Atladóttir, physiotherapist at SAk.

Movement Matters
“Many feel that once they are in a hospital bed and wearing hospital clothes, they should remain still – that they should not be walking around or getting in the way,” says Kristveig.
“But the opposite is extremely important – even small movements, such as walking to the bathroom, sitting in a chair, or going for a short walk, can have very positive effects, both physically and mentally.”

Physical Inactivity Can Be Harmful
“Research shows that inactivity in the hospital can have serious consequences, including for muscles, joints, and overall health,” Kristveig explains. This is especially important to keep in mind at older ages. The older we get, the longer it takes to regain our former strength and ability after illness and inactivity. It can therefore be crucial to get moving as soon as possible in order to be able to stand up again and eventually go home.
“Patients who get up and moving early recover better and find it easier to regain their health after accidents or illness.”

Staff and Relatives Play a Key Role
“Staff are essential,” says Kristveig. “We all need to encourage patients to get up, move, and put on their own clothes when possible – even just by ensuring clear walking paths and chairs in the right places.” She adds that relatives also have an important role to play. “They can encourage patients to move, invite them for a walk, and in that way support both mobility and quality time together. For this to happen, relatives need clear information about the importance of movement and what the patient is allowed to do.”

“Pyjama Paralysis”
End Pyjama Paralysis is an international campaign launched in the UK in 2018. It encourages patients to change out of their hospital gowns during the day, wear their own clothes, get up, and stay active while hospitalized.
“We have increasingly been encouraging patients who are able to wear their own clothes during the day,” Kristveig says. “Wearing personal clothes strengthens self-image and increases the likelihood of getting out of bed and moving.”

Exercise Corners and Posters
To support the project, Exercise Corners have been set up in the Medical and Surgical wards, with exercise stations in the hallways and motivational posters containing simple instructions for staff, patients, and relatives.
“This is, and must be, a joint effort for all of us,” says Kristveig. “The dream outcome is that exercise will become a natural part of hospitalization – so that patients recover faster and feel better.”