Cardiac Rehabilitation During the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Potential for Digital Technology to Support Physical Activity Maintenance: Qualitative Study.
Linda G ParkSerena ChiSusan PitsenbargerJulene K JohnsonAmit J ShahAbdelaziz ElnaggarJulia Von OppenfeldEvan ChoArash HarzandMary A WhooleyPublished in: JMIR cardio (2024)
Individuals who completed CR identified shared concerns about continuing physical activity despite having positive experiences during the CR program. There were significant challenges during the pandemic and heightened concerns for safety and health. The idea of providing support by leveraging digital technology (wearable devices and social media for social support) resonated as a potential solution to help bridge the gap from CR to more independent physical activity. More attention is needed to help individuals experience a tailored and safe transition to home to maintain physical activity among those who complete CR.