Evaluation of the Effects of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Functional Balance in the Elderly

Abstract

Elderly people have risk factors for atherosclerotic and cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) which reduce quality of life and life expectancy. In addition, loss of balance in this age group predisposes them to falls, greater chances of immobilization in bed and predisposition to cardiovascular complications. In this context, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a potential resource for improving balance. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation in improving functional balance in the elderly. A total of 17 elderly people of both sexes, aged over 60, underwent cardiac rehabilitation for five months and were assessed before and after the treatment period. Cardiac rehabilitation proved to be effective with a significant improvement in balance, functional capacity and quality of life (p<0.05), while blood pressure, heart rate and respiratory rate showed a reduction in values, but no significant difference (p>0.05). Satisfactorily, balance, functional capacity, and quality of life (p<0.05) were positively improved in response to monitored physical training, which emphasizes that cardiac rehabilitation, in addition to focusing on cardiovascular diseases, is effective in preventing complications and risks associated with senility.