An Intervention to Improve Function in Severe Cardiopulmonary Illness

The exercise program includes endurance and strength training and warm-up and cool-down strategies. Emphasis is placed upon implementing and adhering to the exercise program at home following intervention completion.

Instruction is provided regarding key elements of managing heart failure and COPD with emphasis upon individual adaptations to prevent exacerbations, unscheduled provider visits, and hospital admissions as well as promotion of daily activity.

This component of the intervention stresses the use of an action plan that is implemented to c-manage bouts of mild illness and to identify symptoms of more serious illness, including appropriate actions.