Effects of COVID-19 Lockdown on Heart Failure Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Exercise Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns have raised concerns about reduced physical activity, quality of life, and sleep quality.
• Limited research exists on the specific impact of these lockdowns on individuals with heart failure (HF).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of the COVID-19 lockdown on physical activity (PA), quality of life (QoL), and sleep quality in heart failure patients.
• To compare these effects across different age groups and sexes.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental, cross-sectional study design was employed, comparing data from during the COVID-19 lockdown (March-June 2020) with post-lockdown (July-October 2020).
• 107 heart failure patients completed assessments for total PA, walking PA, QoL, and sleep quality using validated questionnaires (IPAQ, Cantril Ladder, Minimal Insomnia Symptom Scale).

Main Results:

• Heart failure patients exhibited significantly lower total PA and walking PA during the lockdown compared to the post-lockdown period (p<0.001).
• No significant differences in overall QoL or sleep quality were observed between the two periods.
• Both younger and older patients, as well as men and women, reported reduced PA during lockdown. Older patients and women specifically reported lower QoL during the lockdown period.

Conclusions:

• Heart failure patients experienced a decline in physical activity levels during the COVID-19 lockdown.
• Interventions focusing on improving physical activity programs for heart failure patients during lockdown periods are essential.
• Enhanced PA programs can potentially improve physical activity levels and quality of life, mitigating risks of decompensation during health crises.