Older Rural Women Moving Up and Moving On in Cardiac Rehabilitation

A secondary meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies of gender and access to cardiac rehabilitation

“…Women were worried about cardiac strain, pain, or appearing out of shape during exercise (Cooper et al . , Austin ). Little and Lewis () quoted one man who felt like a ‘jessy’ during certain dance‐like exercises in the classes, while others have found that women wanted more enjoyable exercise options other than treadmills and walking (Moore , Ebbesen ).…”

Factors influencing participation in cardiac rehabilitation programmes after referral and initial attendance: qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis

“…58,71 Generally, participation was sustained when women had positive experiences of exercise and its benefits. 58,72,73 This led them to enjoy participation, 72 attribute health improvements to rehabilitation, 58 and see a possible path of recovery for themselves. 72 Similarly, with continued participation in programmes, men were found to see the benefits of programmes and disbelief about what had happened to them lessened.…”

“…77 Numerous studies reported that the social and group-based nature of programmes facilitated ongoing participation. 22,30,43,44,46,49,61,71,72,75,78–83 These social dimensions were valued because they enhanced social camaraderie with other participants, 30,36,46,77 increased confidence, 57 or supported mutual problem-solving. 42…”

“…62 Women reported enjoying meeting other women with shared experiences of heart disease 42,57,71,80,81 and the social interactions and support that resulted from this. 42,71,72,81…”

“…Contact with knowledgeable and encouraging programme staff and nurses was reported to sustain access over time. 42,71,72,80 Behaviours such as encouragement and ongoing assessment 71 were viewed as supportive and reassuring, 80 as was the perception of service providers as knowledgeable 72 and capable of answering specific questions that women had about their heart disease. 72 Patients emphasized the importance of safe exercise for ongoing attendance.…”