Sex-specific designs may improve women’s participation in cardiac rehab
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Understanding specific needs of women may enhance cardiac rehabilitation programs, according to a study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.
The paper describes implementing novel elements such as convenient settings, program offerings and opportunities for socialization.
“We are experiencing a shift in family responsibilities towards more equality, but today’s women with heart disease are still more likely to be a caregiver than men,” Sol Vidal-Almela, PhD student at University of Ottawa Heart Institute, said in a press release. “Multiple class options throughout the day may particularly benefit younger women who report lack of time, family and work commitments as barriers to attending cardiac rehabilitation.”
In this narrative review, researchers analyzed data from 31 studies published in the past 10 years with at least 70% women at a mean age of at least 45 years. Interventions in these studies consisted of home- or community-based programs that focused on lifestyle education/behavioral coaching or physical activity intervention to increase physical function or activity levels.
High participation rates, defined as 70% or greater, were observed in most interventions and led to significant increases in physical activity at follow-up. Some of the interventions improved CVD risk factors and/or physical function.
Home- and community-based interventions addressed women’s cardiac rehabilitation barriers by adapting the program to meet the needs of participants. Other ways included implementing interesting types of physical activity such as group walking, dancing and technology-based balance exercise, promoting social interactions and offering flexible options for setting and timing.
“This narrative review provides an overview of novel elements of community- and home-based interventions that could be implemented in cardiac rehabilitation to overcome barriers that women face precluding their participation,” Vidal-Almela and colleagues wrote. “Cardiac rehabilitation should follow a comprehensive approach and be individualized.” – by Darlene Dobkowski
Disclosures: The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
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