Exercise guidance to improve the physical ability of patients with chronic schizophrenia

Abstract

Compared to the general population, it has been reported that patients with schizophrenia have a lower level of physical activity and insufficient exercise. The proportion of patients who undertake no regular exercise is very large. In this study, we study the effects of long-term hospitalization on the physical fitness of patients, and investigate the physical activity level of patients with long-term chronic schizophrenia. A comparison is made between long-term chronic schizophrenic patients and elderly residents in the community with similar levels of physical activity and physical fitness . In addition, to structure a safe and effective exercise instruction program for patients who have difficulty with self-managing their physical health, a simple exercise program that could be used in hospital wards was given to patients. This study also examines and verifies the effects of this exercise program by performing a physical fitness test. However, this study has some limitations. Our results may be influenced by selection bias and small sample size. A larger number of subjects with detailed clinical data are needed to elucidate physical effects for patients.