Physical exercise and quality of life in patients with cardiac disease

Abstract

Good quality of life (QoL) that includes physical function, mental and social functions is important for everyone. However, in human life, many things can affect QoL, such as physical and psychological impairments. The prevalent psychological impairments in cardiac patients are anxiety and depression. To overcome these impairments, comprehensive approaches need to be applied to enhance QoL of people, especially those who suffer from chronic diseases, such as cardiac survivors. Exercise rehabilitation, such as aerobic and resistance training, is one of the proper approaches to help cardiac patients overcoming the psychological deficit that accompanies cardiac diseases. It can reduce the level of anxiety and depression, reduce muscle tension, make the patient feel more relaxed, increase confidence and self-esteem in daily life. Physically, exercise contributes to the increase of maximum oxygen consumption, flexibility, strength and endurance of these patients. Training can maintain and enhance physical activity, ability to work and psychological well-being. All together, they are important factors determining the QoL.