Donald where's your troosers #EndPJParalysis Campaign Argyll & Bute HSCP & NHS Highland
Channel: Argyll and Bute HSCP
Date: 2019-03-29

Did you know that a week in hospital can significantly reduce your physical ability? Even short periods being inactive can lead to muscle loss, increased risk of falls, increased confusion, reduced independence, delays in getting home and increased risk of needing help when leaving hospital.


A study that asked people in a hospital ward to wear pedometers found that on average people took just 70 steps a day. A stark contrast to the challenges many people undertake to increase their activity levels.


Within NHS Highland we are committed to delivering the best possible service in partnership with our local communities. We are launching ‘Get up Get Dressed Get Moving’ campaign.

The campaign builds on the good work undertaken in our hospitals so that the public, people who need to go in to our hospitals and their families are aware we encourage people to bring in their day clothes and foot wear, to get out of bed, dressed and to move around the ward as much as possible.

The key message of the campaign is to ‘Get Up, Get Dressed, Get Moving’. If we increase physical activity we can enhance recovery and help people to get back to their home/homely setting sooner to live as independently as possible.

Derek Laidler Lead Physiotherapist Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership said:

“Research highlights that many people in our hospitals do not require bed rest. Studies have also shown that wearing pyjamas can change how we feel about ourselves. It can reinforce a perception of ill health, inactivity and consequently delays recovery.

“Part of the challenge lies in our traditional attitudes around ‘rest’, ‘recuperation’ and ‘convalescing’. Bed ‘rest’ is perhaps the worst thing possible for most people, regardless of their reason for being in hospital.”

NHS Highland’s Allied Health Professional Lead for South & Mid Community Services, Amanda Trafford, said:

“Evidence has demonstrated that outcomes for people in hospital can be significantly improved by encouraging people to be more independent. Supporting people to get up, washed and dress in their own clothes is a vital part of the drive for independence.”