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. 2017 Jul-Aug;46(4):308-312.
doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2017.04.008. Epub 2017 May 17.

"We are all there for the same purpose": Support for an integrated community exercise program for older adults with HF and COPD

Laura Desveaux  1 , Samantha Harrison  2 , Annemarie Lee  2 , Sunita Mathur  3 , Roger Goldstein  4 , Dina Brooks  5
Affiliations

"We are all there for the same purpose": Support for an integrated community exercise program for older adults with HF and COPD

Laura Desveaux et al. Heart Lung. 2017 Jul-Aug.

Abstract

Background: Despite well-established improvements following rehabilitation, functional gains often diminish following discharge.

Objective: To explore the attitudes of older adults with HF and COPD, who have completed rehabilitation, toward community-based exercise maintenance.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 individuals with HF or COPD.

Results: Deductive thematic analysis uncovered three themes: 1) transitioning to community exercise is challenging, highlighting participants' struggle with unstructured maintenance and a lack of appropriate programs; 2) a structured, group-based program tailored to functional ability facilitates adherence, describing participants views on the importance of routine, and accountability; and 3) "We are all there for the same purpose" - participant support for integrated exercise, including the benefit of multiple perspectives and sustainability.

Conclusions: A motivating program leader and access to appropriate facilities are key features to support adherence to prescribed activity. Tailored programs can be delivered consecutively to older adults with HF and COPD.

Keywords: Barriers; COPD; Exercise; Heart failure; Program design; Qualitative; Rehabilitation.

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