Cardiac Rehabilitation:
Helping Patients Get Back to the Beat of Life

According to the American Heart Association, 71.3 million Americans are living with some type of cardiovascular disease. If you or someone you know has suffered a heart attack or has heart trouble, you may be familiar with a program called cardiac rehabilitation, which helps heart patients recover through a combination of physical activity, instruction about lifestyle choices
and counseling.

Taking Action
to Improve Heart Health
After experiencing a heart attack and/or having heart surgery, many patients assume their recovery will involve mainly resting and sleeping. Although bed rest may seem like a logical choice for a heart patient, failing to move about and exercise may actually slow the healing process. A cardiac rehabilitation program is designed to keep you active. Focused on improving the overall health of heart patients, the program typically includes the following elements:

• A medical assessment. Your rehabilitation team will look at your unique health needs and objectives, including your medical history, risk factors and fitness.
• Instruction about lifestyle choices. If you've had a heart attack or exhibit certain risk factors such as high blood pressure, you may be asked about your lifestyle choices, such as your eating and exercise habits and whether you smoke.
• Exercise. Studies have shown that heart attack survivors who enroll in an exercise program often experience improved health.* Specialists will evaluate your fitness level and limitations in order to develop a routine that's right for you.
• Counseling. If you've had heart trouble, you may have psychological strain – worry, stress or depression. Qualified counselors can discuss your concerns with you.

A cardiac rehabilitation program provides you with many advantages, including the tools needed to live a healthier, more active lifestyle and the assurance of knowing your condition is being managed.

The Heart of the Matter: Your Future
If you're recovering from a heart attack or have had heart trouble, check with your physician about enrolling in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Research has shown that patients often experience improved health and a more positive outlook on life after rehab. Recovery takes time, and cardiac rehabilitation specialists are there to help you every step of the way.