Quality of life of elderly patients enrolled in cardiac rehabilitation.

The quality of life of 51 elderly subjects enrolled in cardiac rehabilitation is described to devise strategies for improving QOL as an outcome of a therapeutic regimen. Based on Chrisman and Fowler's Systems-in-Change Model, physical function, social function, and emotional function were assessed via the McMaster Health Index Questionnaire and the Cantril Self-Anchoring Scale during participation in cardiac rehabilitation. The greatest benefit of cardiac rehabilitation to subjects was in physical function, but benefits were also noted in social and emotional function.