Home-Based Arm Cardiac Rehabilitation in Disabled Veterans: A Pilot Study.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is crucial post-acute coronary syndromes but faces underutilization in the US.
• Comorbidities and geographical barriers limit access to traditional CR programs.
• Home-based, tailored CR offers a potential solution for underserved populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of a 12-week tele-monitored, home-based CR program.
• To evaluate the impact of this tailored program on quality of life and exercise capacity.

Main Methods:

• Seven veterans participated in a 12-week program involving tele-monitored arm ergometer and weight training.
• Participants underwent initial arm ergometer stress tests and exercise technique training.
• Quality of life was assessed using the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) and MacNew Heart Disease Health-related Quality of Life (MacNew) questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Six of seven participants completed the study without adverse events.
• Significant improvements were observed in MacNew scores for global, physical, emotional, and social well-being.
• The SAQ indicated enhanced physical limitation, angina frequency, treatment satisfaction, and overall quality of life.
• Patients demonstrated reduced blood pressure, increased exercise duration, and higher workload.

Conclusions:

• A home-based, tele-monitored arm CR program is safe and feasible.
• Tailored CR programs can improve quality of life and functional capacity in coronary artery disease patients with disabilities.
• This approach may enhance CR accessibility for individuals facing traditional program limitations.