Energy conservation

Occupation Therapy Energy Conservation Energy conservation looks at modifying the way a person carries out an activity so as to use the least amount of effort.

These modifications may help to reduce incidences of shortness of breath and fatigue when the person performs his or her activities of daily living.

Principles Plan Ahead • Gather all the items needed before the start of an activity.

• Spread heavy and light tasks throughout the day and week.

• Do not rush – work at a slow and steady pace and schedule enough time for activities.

• Eliminate unnecessary steps of a task where possible.

Pace Yourself • Plan rest periods throughout the day.

• Prioritise, select and do the necessary tasks first.

Avoid Fatigue • Get enough rest and sleep – avoid drinking caffeine containing beverages 4 to 6 hours before bed time.

• Avoid carrying out activities after a heavy meal.

• Stop and rest before fatigue sets in.

• Choose to sit rather than stand while carrying out activities.

Avoid Excessive Bending, Reaching and Twisting • Organise and store commonly used items within easy reach.

• Use equipment with long or extendable handles to retrieve items from the floor.

Keep commonly used items at waist height or within the “easy” zone to make reaching easier.

Avoid over-reaching, excessive bending or twisting when reaching for items.

Breathe Easy • Ensure adequate ventilation in the room.

• Slow, deep breathing helps the body to relax and reduces stress.

Maintain Good Posture • Sit or stand upright – a stooped posture compresses the diaphragm and makes breathing more difficult.

Observe Good Body Mechanics • Push or pull rather than lift.

• Slide objects along the table top rather than carry it.

• When lifting objects, – Stand close to the object to be moved.

– Inhale before lifting and exhale during the lift.

– Bend only at the knees and hips and keep the back straight during the lift.

Reduce Effort • Use labour saving and/or efficient devices, e.g. kitchen trolleys, automated appliances, lightweight cleaning tools and efficient cleaning agents.

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Ask for help from family members and friends, or engage parttime cleaning services.

Disclaimer: Exercises illustrated and instructed in this handout are strictly for designated patient based on the assessment and instruction of the therapist. If you have any doubts, please contact your therapist.

Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities in the north of Singapore, under the National Healthcare Group.

Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.

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