Improved exercise tolerance by cardiac rehabilitation after myocardial infarction in the elderly: Results of a preliminary, controlled study

N. Marchionni, F. Fattirolli, P. Valoti, L. Baldasseroni, C. Burgisser, L. Ferrucci, D. Fabbri, G. Masotti

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

Elderly patients are commonly excluded from cardiac rehabilitation after myocardial infarction (MI). The present controlled, non-randomized trial was undertaken as a preliminary study to compare some effects of cardiac rehabilitation between patients younger and older than 65 years without contraindications to physical exercise. Baseline total work capacity (TWC) was assessed by a maximal ergometric stress testing 4 weeks after MI. Patients were then prospectively enrolled into an 8-week ambulatory rehabilitation program (R- group: age ≤ 65 N=16; age >65 N=16). Those who refused or who could not participate in the program because of logistic difficulties served as controls (NR- group: age ≤ 65 N=16; age >65 N=14). In spite of non- randomized allocation, clinical characteristics did not differ between either treatment groups or age groups. TWC was re- assessed at 8 weeks from baseline evaluation in all patients. The number of completed training sessions in the R- group, and the proportion of sessions which were suspended for physiological or pathological (adverse events during exercise) causes were similar under and over 65 years. TWC increased (p65: +65%, NS). A spontaneous enhancement of TWC (+37%, p

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)175-180
Number of pages6
JournalAging clinical and experimental research
Volume6
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1994
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Aging
  • ischemic heart disease
  • myocardial infarction
  • rehabilitation

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Aging

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