Physical activity and exercise for elders with cardiovascular disease.

Elders participate in limited exercise, leading to reduced fitness and deconditioning. Regular moderate-intensity exercise/activity provides significant health benefits. As elders become more physically active, the health care burden on society will decrease. Because nurses often counsel patients on lifestyle changes, such as exercise, for improving cardiovascular health, it is important for them to be knowledgeable about the specific program modalities and benefits/risks of exercise for older patients with cardiovascular disease.