Even at the most minimal level, physical activity that has been designated by a doctor as safe for your loved one is important to speed healing, maintain muscle tone, and to guard against bedsores, pneumonia and blood clots which can be caused by inactivity. If your loved one can get out of bed or move at all without help, encourage as much movement as the doctor will allow. If he or she is unable to turn or move independently, you should change his or her body position every two hours. As a caregiver, you also may need to help your friend or loved one carry out a passive exercise program as prescribed by the doctor or physical therapist. You will be given instructions on how to correctly move your loved one's arms, legs or other body parts so as not to injure stiff joints and fragile bones.
Mental activity is also extremely important when a person is ill.
But you may have to provide other alternatives, especially for a child or young adult. Remember, failure to remain in contact with the rest of the world through mental stimulation can cause a person to lose interest in the world around him or her, which can delay healing. As caregiver, it is your responsibility to make sure that meals are in keeping with the doctor's orders and that the loved one is getting the nutrients he or she needs. In some cases, you may need to get help from a dietitian to plan meals that are appropriate for the person's condition. Privacy is extremely important, especially when a person needs to urinate or have a bowel movement.