Caregiver’s role in fitness and nutrition

Perhaps one of the greatest strides for patients in the past two decades is the increased focus on diet, physical therapy, strength, and endurance exercise programs. Most centers require patients to exercise and to be as active as possible pre- and post-transplant. Many centers have pulmonary rehabilitation facilities and programs with well trained pulmonary physical therapists and nurses who work diligently to maximize their patients’ strength and endurance through cardio and muscle-building exercises. These exercises can bring a feeling of well-being and accomplishment to the patient. Although your loved one may be hungry and exhausted when they finish, patients often reap physical, mental, and emotional benefits from exercise. This can be a time for the coach to come out as you nudge or urge your loved one to go to exercise sessions. They should always seek advice from their team about what physical activities they can handle.

Having a healthy diet and good nutrition is important in maintaining weight requirements, blood sugars, and possible side effects from medications. Nutritionists will guide you and offer suggestions for making delicious healthy fare. Understanding and learning to prepare meals and snacks that are rich in vitamins and proteins will benefit both you and the patient.