Impact of Preoperative Rehabilitation on Physical Activity Levels in Middle-Aged Adults: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Preoperative rehabilitation, commonly referred to as "prehabilitation," is an emerging strategy aimed at improving patient outcomes by enhancing physical and mental readiness before surgery. This proactive approach is particularly relevant for middle-aged adults who are scheduled for major orthopaedic, cardiac, or abdominal procedures, as they are at a heightened risk of experiencing postoperative deconditioning, functional decline, and reduced physical activity levels. By implementing targeted exercise programs, nutritional optimization, and psychological support prior to surgery, prehabilitation seeks to mitigate these risks and promote faster recovery. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the impact of prehabilitation on post-surgical recovery, emphasizing key outcomes such as physical activity levels, functional capacity, and overall quality of life in middle-aged adults. It further explores the underlying physiological mechanisms through which prehabilitation exerts its benefits, including improved cardiovascular efficiency, enhanced muscle strength, and reduced inflammation. Additionally, the review compares findings from key clinical studies to highlight the efficacy of different prehabilitation protocols and discusses practical clinical implications for healthcare providers.

Keywords: Preoperative rehabilitation, Prehabilitation, Recovery, Physical activity, Functional outcomes, Middle-aged adults, Surgery.