The NYTimes's The New Old Age blog just posted a thoughtful piece about how the simple act of walking in the hospital (or "ambulating" in doctor-speak) can help maintain physical strength and ultimately long-term outcome.
From what I've observed in the hospital, the article is so accurate. So many times, I see elderly (and for that matter, young, previously healthy) folks walk into the hospital and then wither away during their stay. One of our attendings used to tell us that every week of bedrest meant at least a 10% decrease in muscle mass. It's a reminder that as a clinician, we can help prevent functional decline, or at least hasten recovery in the hospital, but encouraging patients and staff to "ambulate with assist."
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