Takeaway
Every patient encounter provides an opportunity to have a conversation about their physical activity levels—recognizing its profound impact on both mental and physical health outcomes.
Lifelong Learning in Clinical Excellence | January 16, 2025 | 1 min read
By Edward Slipek, MD, St. Paul, Minnesota
I walked into the exam room to see Mrs. Jones, her face etched with worry lines. “I can’t seem to do anything anymore. My knees ache, I’m always tired, and I just don’t have the energy to do the things I used to love,” she said.
Stories like these are common, and you may have heard a similar one in your own practice. The stories are a reminder that our role as healthcare professionals extends beyond diagnosing and treating disease. It’s about helping our patients live their best lives, to experience joy and fulfillment.
The inactivity epidemic
The CDC data on physical activity in older adults is a stark reminder of the inactivity epidemic. Only 13.9% of U.S. adults aged 65 and older meet recommended federal targets for physical activity during leisure time—that’s a shockingly low number. And it’s a wake-up call. We need to be champions for physical activity, not just for our patients’ physical health, but for their mental and emotional well-being too.
Beyond the prescription pad
We often focus on the medical aspects of care—the medications, the procedures, the tests. But what about the social determinants of health? What about the power of movement?
Here are a few things I found helpful in my own practice:
1. Start the conversation.
Make physical activity a regular part of your conversations with patients. Ask about their current activity levels, their barriers to exercise, and their goals.
2. Listen and empathize.
Communicate that you understand their concerns and fears.
3. Offer practical solutions.
Instead of telling patients to “exercise more,” provide specific and personalized recommendations based on their interests.
4. Be a role model.
Lead by example and share your own fitness journey.
5. Collaborate with others.
Work with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and registered dietitians to develop comprehensive care plans.
6. Empower patients.
Encourage them to find activities they enjoy. Help them set realistic goals and celebrate their successes.
Every patient interaction is an opportunity to make a difference. Let’s use our expertise and our compassion to inspire our patients to prioritize physical activity. Let’s help them reclaim their health and live life to the fullest.
This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.