Associations between Individuals` Emotional Anxiety, Depression and Physical Functioning After Myocardial Infarction: A Comparative Study at Two Points of Time

Previous studies have indicated that cardiac rehabilitation programs have had an improved effect in the quality of life of patients. Only a few studies, to date, have reported the differences between the physical and psychological data – more specifically in older and younger individuals participating in physical rehabilitation after a myocardial infarction. Keeping this in mind, the goal of the current study was to distinguish the changes in older and younger members` physical fitness as it relates to anxiety and depression results from Time1 (at the inception of the study) and T2 (3 months later).

Participants consisted of 67 individuals ranging in age of 36-65 years, and 33 between the ages of 66-84 years. The study comprised both men and women, all of whom have had myocardial infarctions for the first time. The study participants completed a questionnaire examining anxiety and depression levels at T1 and T2. The data included medical information, demographics, heart rates and fitness levels using MET (Metabolic Equivalent Task) scores, collected throughout the study.

Decreased levels of anxiety and depression were noticeable in the two groups; fitness levels among both groups were average. Both groups had significant improvement in physical fitness as well as decreased reported anxiety between the T1 and T2. Furthermore, regression tests exhibited low anxiety levels yielding improved physical fitness.

As a result, the findings conclude that rehabilitation programs are beneficial in the geriatric as well as younger age groups. It is therefore necessary to encourage adults to commit to a cardiac rehabilitation program post-MI. The findings also suggest the value of professional guidance in reducing anxiety levels to improve patients` physical function.