Theoretical perspectives on the nature of social support in cardiovascular illness

In light of the minimal follow-up care that cardiovascular patients typically receive and the few patients who enter cardiac rehabilitation programs, it is evident that these patients need more support resources to improve their health outcomes. A better understanding is needed of the basic support processes that occur after a cardiac event so that the different sources and types of support can be tapped for the desired outcome. This article highlights the research findings on social support for cardiovascular patients in light of various theoretical perspectives and provides implications for practice and future research.