Our core content on Lung conditions and related factsheets has been translated to a number of other languages.
For more languages explore all available Factsheet translations.
Volunteer as a translator or learn how to translate using Chrome, Firefox or Edge browsers.
European Lung Foundation
Our core content on Lung conditions and related factsheets has been translated to a number of other languages by our volunteer team.
For more languages explore all available Factsheet translations.
Volunteer as a translator or learn how to translate using Chrome, Firefox or Edge browsers.
A structured exercise programme is safe and can help older people who are hospitalised with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to a new study.
There is some debate around the benefits of specialist exercise programmes, known as pulmonary rehabilitation. This study aimed to assess the pros and cons of this type of treatment.
What did the study look at?
The researchers looked at a total of 86 people who were in hospital due to their COPD. 46 of these people took part in an exercise programme, tailored to their own level of activity. The other 40 people did not take part in an exercise programme. People in both groups were tested before they left hospital and at 3 months and 12 months after they left hospital. The tests looked at how they were feeling, whether they were able to perform daily activities and how they felt mentally.
What do the results show?
The results found that the people taking part in the exercise programme saw improvements in all physical measurements as well as measurements looking at how they felt and their quality of life. There were no negative side effects reported from taking part in the exercise programme.
Why is this important?
These findings support the use of exercise programmes to help people who are in hospital due to their COPD. The authors state that the results were also found in people aged 87 and over. This strengthens the argument that this type of treatment is safe, even in this more vulnerable group. There is still a lack of evidence overall in this area and further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Sign up to get the latest information and research on lung conditions, hear about our upcoming events and campaigns, plus views from experts and patients! You can unsubscribe at any time.
ELF is a non-profit organisation registered as a UK company (VAT no. GB 115 0027 74) and charity (no. 1118930).
Our Brussels office enterprise number is 0738.383.695
European Lung Foundation's TR ID number in the Transparency Register is: 094039644810-79