Patients suffering from chronic or acute cardiac conditions, or recovering from cardiac surgery, are often recommended to join a cardiac rehabilitation program. Cardiac rehab programs are customized to each patient based on their condition and overall health, with the goal of improving overall quality of life and preventing further heart problems in the future. Under the supervision of a team of experts including doctors, nurses, physical therapists, counselors, and exercise and nutrition specialists, patients participate in specialized exercises to strengthen the heart while also receiving education and counseling about healthy living. Specific program activities will include low-impact exercise such as walking, cycling, rowing machine, lifting weights and other resistance training. 

Cardiac rehab is proven to have significant benefits for patients, helping them to manage or reduce cardiac symptoms, decreasing the chance of future hospitalizations, and ultimately maximizing their quality of life.

Why is cardiac rehabilitation important?

Cardiac rehabilitation provides several short-term and long-term benefits, most importantly strengthening the heart and body to aid in recovery from a cardiac event. Rehabilitation can also relieve cardiac symptoms, including chest pain, and help reduce stress. Cardiac rehab is important for a number of other reasons as well:

• Cardiac rehab increases energy and strength to make daily activities easier

• Cardiac rehab improves overall cardiovascular health and circulation

• Cardiac rehab helps patients develop healthier habits, including diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and taking prescribed medications

• Cardiac rehab can lead to improved moods and higher quality of life

• Cardiac rehab reduces the chance of future heart problems, and lowers the risk of death within five years after a cardiac event

Cardiac rehab can lead to greater outcomes for a range of different heart problems, including heart attack, congestive heart failure, heart transplant, and coronary artery bypass among other conditions.  It is especially important for women and older adults, who studies show are less likely to join a cardiac rehab program.

When to start cardiac rehab

Patients recovering from a heart attack or heart surgery might be referred to a cardiac rehab team while still in the hospital. The first phase of rehab is a comprehensive assessment that includes an exam and evaluation of medical history, including any possible comorbidities that could complicate recovery. The actual rehab program begins after the patient is discharged from the hospital, and can take place in a skilled nursing facility or other therapeutic environment. The exercises involved in the program gradually intensify as the patient heals and regains strength. Typically, patients attend rehab a few times a week for an hour at a time. While most programs last between 6 and 12 weeks, the duration varies depending on the severity of the patient’s condition and how well they progress with the program.

Cardiac rehab at Bella Vista Health Center

Skilled nursing facilities like Bella Vista Health Center are designed to provide extended care and rehabilitation programs following hospitalization. At Bella Vista, our cardiac rehab programs are focused on recovery and education so patients can live longer, healthier lives after a major cardiac event. Our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility also provides a wide range of amenities for short and long-term residents, including social activities and concierge services, all aimed at helping patients recover in comfort and get back to living their best lives. For more information or to schedule a tour of our facilities, give us a call at (619) 644-1000.