Keeping active
Keeping active when you have a terminal illness can have lots of benefits. It may help reduce some of the symptoms of your illness or treatment. It can also help to improve your mood and quality of life. Here, we talk about ways to keep active when you have a terminal illness, and professionals who can help.
On this page:
Benefits of keeping active
We all need exercise for our bodies to function well. Exercise can help your body by:
- making your muscles stronger
- giving you energy
- reducing symptoms like pain, fatigue, constipation and shortness of breath.
And it can benefit your mind by:
- helping you to relax
- helping you sleep better
- improving your mood
- reducing anxiety, stress and depression
- improving your concentration and making you more alert.
Exercising safely
Always speak to your doctor, nurse or healthcare team about doing physical activity. They can advise you on the safety of different types of exercise and what is most appropriate for you. They can help you adapt the amount and type of exercise you do to suit your ability and energy levels.
Some days you may have more energy than others, so you may need to vary how much time you spend exercising. This might be because of symptoms from your illness or treatment. Try to find a balance. It can be as simple as doing a little, like walking a short distance every day. Listen to your body and stop when you need to.
Stop exercising if you feel dizzy, faint, nauseous, or experience any new pain. It's important to rest when your body tells you. If the symptoms continue, stop and ask your doctor or nurse for advice.
If you can't move very much or struggle with your balance, there are exercises you can do to stay active and improve your co-ordination. Read some ideas for different exercises below.
Towards the end of life, people move less. Your doctor might recommend you do very small amounts of movement often.
Healthcare professionals who can help
Speak to your doctor, nurse, occupational therapist or physiotherapist for advice about keeping active. They can help you to plan an exercise programme that's right for you.
Physiotherapists can help you to plan your daily activities in a way that saves your energy. If you want to do more activity, physiotherapists can show you ways to exercise safely. They can also help you manage symptoms like fatigue and breathlessness.
Occupational therapists (OTs) can help you to manage fatigue. They will help you plan your activities so that you can do the things that are most important to you, and in a way which saves you energy. They can recommend different techniques, equipment or changes to your home which would make it easier to carry out activities. This could be things like handrails or walking aids.
During coronavirus, you may be able to get support from healthcare professionals like occupational therapists and physiotherapists over the phone, or on a video call.
Fatigue and breathlessness are symptoms which might make it harder or stop you from wanting to exercise. Occupational therapists and physiotherapists can help you to manage these symptoms. Find out more about managing:
Ways to keep active
There are lots ways to keep active when you're ill. Choose an activity you enjoy, as this will help you to keep doing it regularly. Here are some ideas:
- Aerobic activities – these require moderate effort and will raise your heart rate. They include swimming, walking, dancing, riding a bike or playing sport.
- Balance, flexibility and strength exercises – these can help with your mobility and keep your muscles strong.
- Chair exercises – these are exercises that you can do while sitting in a chair or wheelchair.
- Gentle yoga or chair yoga – yoga can improve strength, balance and flexibility.
- Group exercise classes - some people find having company when exercising helps them to keep motivated and think positively about their health . You could take part in a group class like yoga or Pilates.
- T'ai chi – this involves gentle movements which can improve your balance and help you feel calm and relaxed.
- Walking – regular walks can help build your stamina. You could try short 10-minute walks outdoors, or a brisk walk, where you set a speed you want to walk at. You could also join a walking group.
You can read more about these exercises on the NHS website:
If you're in a hospital, hospice or care home, speak to the healthcare team about what exercise programs are available.
During coronavirus, there are a number of exercise groups or classes which are happening online, if you can't get to them in person.
Watch Tony's story about keeping active when you have a terminal illness.
Exercise for wheelchair users
If you use a wheelchair, you might find some of the following exercises helpful:
- Swimming - accessible swimming pools have equipment adapted for wheelchair users. If there isn't built-in access at your local swimming pool, there may be a lift, stair or submersible wheelchair available. Leisure centres have to provide accessible facilities by law. Contact your local leisure centre if you have questions about what equipment or sessions they have.
- Sitting exercises – the NHS has examples of exercises you can do while sitting down.
- Rowing – you could use a rowing machine adapted for wheelchair use.
- Sports – you could get involved with a wheelchair sports team, like basketball, netball or badminton.
Speak to your doctor, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist. They can help you create an exercise plan which works for you.
You might also find these websites useful:
- The English Federation of Disability Sport - find a local facility suitable for disabled people.
- NHS – fitness advice for wheelchair users.
External websites
Age UK – keeping fit
The English Federation of Disability Sport - find your local gym suitable for people with disabilities
NHS – health and fitness
Nidirect – physical activity
NHS Health Scotland – Physical activity
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About this information
This information is not intended to replace any advice from health or social care professionals. We suggest that you consult with a qualified professional about your individual circumstances. Read more about how our information is created and how it's used.
