Table 1 A model of the multi-component individualized physiotherapy program for patients receiving hospice service in the home

A model of the multi-component individualized physiotherapy program

1. Mental and physical preparation of the patient for exercises - greetings, questions about well-being, motivational conversation - encouragement for doing exercises together (determining together closer and further objectives of improvement).

2. Breathing exercises in a lying or sitting position.

3. Breathing exercises together with active or supporting exercises for the upper and lower limbs in a lying and sitting position. Exercises for major muscle groups. The number of repetitions and sets are tailored to the patient’s condition (on average 2–3 sets of 4–8 repetitions, during the first session the number of sets is 1 and it is increasing during the program if the patient’s condition allows it)

4. Patient’s standing up - sitting down with or without a support, standing up.

5. Transfer exercises - moving from the bed to the chair/armchair and coming back.

6. Walking exercises - walking on a flat ground, walking on a variable ground (carpet, thresholds, etc.)

7. Balance exercises in sitting and/or standing position with an assistance of the physiotherapist.

8. Exercises using home equipment (furniture, walls, handles, etc.) to move around the house safely.

9. Exercises using auxiliary equipment (walking stick, crutch, walker) to move around the house.

10. Ergonomic exercises in walking, lifting and moving objects, performing everyday activities.

11. Advice on the reorganization of home space in order to adapt it to the functional needs of the patient.

12. Education in the field of safety rules when moving inside and outside the home (if possible). Ways of dealing with dizziness, weakness, etc. while moving or performing daily activities.

13. Learning and training to be aware of benefits associated with rest and relaxation.

14. Education of the patient’s family after each session in the scope of performing exercises with the patient on days when sessions with the physiotherapist were not carried out.

Individual points of the program are interspersed with breathing exercises and rest in a sitting or lying position.

Each session is completed with recommendations for the patient and the carer on the patient’s activity between training sessions with a physiotherapist.

The patient and the carer are encouraged to contact the physiotherapist or doctor by phone between sessions in case of any questions or concerns.