Pulmonary Rehabilitation
The Aim
Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a programme designed to lessen the impact that disorders such as Emphysema and COPD have on quality of life. This is a community based programme which encourages participants to continue with the skills learned in their own homes.
What the Programme Involves
The eight week programme covers:
- Exercise
- Breathing control
- How the Body Works
- Medication management
- COPD management
- Nutrition
- Energy conservation
- Stress management
- Support that is available in the Community
An individual assessment with trained staff will be completed before the programme starts, and another at the conclusion of the programme.
The Expected Benefits
Following Pulmonary Rehabilitation, most people feel they are able to do more and feel less breathless. Benefits include:
- Reduced breathlessness
- Increased exercise tolerance and improved physical function
- Improved mood and motivation
- Improved knowledge of condition and management
These points can lead to a lessened chance of hospitalisation, and a better quality of life.
Post Programme Support
COPD support groups operate each month in Kawerau, Whakatane and Opotiki. For further information, please contact the COPD Liaison Officer at Disabilities Resource Centre Trust, telephone 0800 227 363 or 07 301 1447.