Several studies have shown that elderly persons
hospitalized for CAP may be at increased risk of
functional loss during hospitalization and after
discharge. A lack of recovery in the first 3
months is associated with an increased risk of
hospital readmission and 1-year mortality [El
Solh et al. 2006]. For this reason, rehabilitation
of elderly patients during hospitalization and
post-discharge should be encouraged [Klausen
et al. 2012]. In addition, in elderly patients
special attention should also be paid to the
global assessment, including aspects such as
nutritional status, fluid therapy, comorbidity stabilizing
therapy, and patient information. A randomized,
controlled trial demonstrated that
nutritional supplementation in older patients
admitted for pneumonia achieved a faster and
greater physical recovery [Woo et al. 1994].
Similarly, the use of a three-step critical pathway,
including early mobilization, was safe and effective
in reducing the length of hospital stay for CAP
and did not adversely affect patient outcomes
[Carratala` et al. 2012].