PULMONARY REHABILITATION IN THE ELDERLY PATIENT

Ageing is a physiological process in which body deterioration is observed, which is associated with a variety of pathologies in different organs and systems, most often of the cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems. Degenerative joint diseases also become more frequent in elderly and old people. The chronic respiratory diseases are common in the elderly patient, and therefore the application of pulmonary rehabilitation is of utmost importance. It includes special breathing exercises and techniques that improve the function of the respiratory system, the general body condition and the quality of life of the elderly patient. The aim of the present review was to analyse the literature sources associated with the application and effects from pulmonary rehabilitation in elderly patients with chronic respiratory illnesses and following COVID-19. The research methodology includes a literature overview of scientific publications in the following databases: Research Gate, PubMed, Google Scholar. According to the reviewed scientific sources, the application of breathing exercises has a beneficial effect on respiratory function and the quality of life in elderly patients. The pulmonary rehabilitation is used in chronic diseases of the respiratory system and in patients recovering from COVID. It is applied in clinical, outpatient and sanatorium settings. The respiratory rehabilitation improves the lung vital capacity, respiratory volume and psycho-emotional tone of elderly patients.