Healthy Heart After a Cardiac Event
Strictly for Seniors
You've had a cardiac event. The cause of this event, in most cases, is atherosclerosis (blockage of the coronary arteries) or coronary heart disease. We refer to complete blockage of a coronary artery as a heart attack.
Whether your event was a heart attack, heart surgery, or severe chest pain (angina), it took you a lifetime to develop the problem, but you survived! You now have a second chance to establish a healthier way of life that will protect your heart and possibly reverse the natural course of coronary heart disease.
Making some lifestyle changes will be important in preventing future cardiac events. In the past it was thought that once you develop a heart problem, you might be unable to pursue your occupation, exercise or resume your usual social and family activities. Today we know that in making healthy lifestyle changes, you can feel better than before and go on to live a healthy and more fulfilling life. The most important element in your cardiac rehabilitation is you.
What is Cardiac Rehabilitation?
Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program offering exercise, education, and support that provides many benefits for your overall health. It improves cardiovascular function, increases the ability to exercise, and builds self-confidence. Important components of a good rehabilitation program are the educational sessions: lectures, group discussions, and activities. You are thus able to obtain support in making lifestyle changes. The social support of the group provides an atmosphere for people to share their concerns and experiences.
