Advice re nutrition and supplements to build muscle in frail DH

You Tube has exercise and fitness for people of every age and level of ability. There are exercises for "elderly" people and for frailty. Some of them look do-able, though I'm no judge of suitability. Worth a look, I'd say.

Thanks all.
Siope I know of a local physio so may ask her to come and advice re how much exercise can be done.
RosesMaw that would be good but unfortunately DH can’t use his right foot at all. He’s encased in huge bandages.
His diet is normally excellent. We eat healthy at home but he has deteriorated so much since being in hospital the doctors have suggested I build up his nutrition.
Gradyma that is a most encouraging post. Thank you.
I hope you continue to improve and gain strength.
Oreo thank you I will look into magnesium.
Gwyllt I think our local council did the same but not sure they do now. I will definitely try and get DH involved more in the chair exercises.

Prior to my issues I used to attend pilates and one day we did chair exercises. More challenging than you might think
I too did bed exercises after hip replacement with positive results

In Wales there is a scheme the leisure centres run gym session for rehab
Dont laugh but I attended for cardio rehab I was on crutches and could do very little. The instructor was very supportive. And know your background The sessions were fun and everyone had issues got me out of house to so good for moral Break for husband as went on mobility scooter when weather dry
Referral is by GP physio etc and it was £2 per session
Depends were you live but might be worth looking into
I also had folding bike I used while listening to story on radio Less strain than walking and warmer in this weather
Gently gently catch ye monkey as the saying goes

I forgot to mention that the exercises I was given by my physiotherapist initially were lying on my bed - I was too weak for anything more - we progressed to chair exercises and then standing/walking/climbing stairs. I’m still very frail and weak but I’m so much better than I was.

Protein, gentle exercise and I think magnesium supplements will help.

I’ve been in the same position as your DH. I was in hospital late last year and bed bound for several weeks both in ICU & medical ward. On my discharge from hospital I had lost 2 stone in weight and was too weak to self mobilise. On my discharge the hospital arranged for a physiotherapist to come to my home, a dietitian with whom I have regular telephone appointments re nutrition and social services have provided a shower stool, toilet frame and handrails for the stairs. I have been home since mid October and although still underweight, I no longer need a bed downstairs as my physio has got me to use the stairs and I am able to do a lot more for myself as the exercises have made me stronger. I think you should contact your GP and ask for the help you need. By the way none of this was means tested and your DH is entitled to as much help as he needs. I wish you well 💐

Would one of those Revitive machines be any use? Or even a seated cycle thingy? I’m sure his diet is more than adequate, exercise (gentle of course) is the best way to rebuild muscles.

A good trainer would still be able to help, I think. One of the classes my physio recommended, when I was at my worst, was all chair exercise. I admit to sneering a bit, but I was surprised at how much resistance - thus muscle building - exercise is possible sitting down.

Thanks both for your help. Unfortunately DH can’t walk at the moment. Exercise is limited to what can be done in a chair.
Good advice about the dietician, thanks. I’ll chase that up while we’re in the hospital.

I agree re the protein, but increase the amount gradually and with food that your DH likes.
Same with excersise start small and increase gradually, going for short walks at first would help.

If it's a weight issue, the NHS dieticians are excellent, and provide various supplements free of charge (my husband is in a constant struggle to maintain his weight, so we have lots of experience). Do ask for a referral.

If it's muscle he wants to regain, then exercise is the only answer, combined with a high protein diet (the dietician will advise on this too). Could he get advice from a physio? Mine - who is private, so it may be different - signposted me to a number of suitable trainers and classes following a lengthy period of limited activity.