For older people with heart failure, a simple habit can make the difference between life and death: regular exercise before hospitalization. A new study by Japanese researchers shows that patients who maintain temporary exercise routines before admission show significantly better survival and physical function after discharge.
The study, published on February 19 in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, provides compelling evidence that what you do before a health crisis is as important as care later.
Heart failure can affect millions of people around the world, especially among the aging population, seriously affecting quality of life and increasing the risk of mortality. Although previous studies identified the benefits of exercise therapy after diagnosis, this study was one of the first to study how pre-school exercise habits affect recovery outcomes.
“After post-hospital health, even after a small amount of but consistent physical exercise was performed before hospitalization,” explained Taisuke Nakade, PhD, who led the study, who led the study.
The study analyzed data from 1,262 patients aged 65 and older who were hospitalized for heart failure in 15 Japanese hospitals. The researchers evaluated exercise habits through a three-question physical activity assessment tool, specifically studying whether to perform moderate exercise (30 minutes) or vigorous exercise (20 minutes) at least once a week before hospitalization.
These findings were surprising: 53.4% of patients reported regular exercise habits before hospitalization. These people show higher grip and faster walking speeds compared to non-athletes. Most importantly, their risk of death after discharge was significantly reduced.
When the researchers adjusted for other variables, they found that prehospital exercise was associated with a 25% reduction in mortality risk (hazard ratio, 0.75).
What makes these results particularly encouraging is the relatively moderate motion threshold. The study did not require participants to become marathon athletes or sports enthusiasts, it was just to remain consistent in some form of physical exercise.
The concept of “muscle banking” is a potential explanation for the observed benefits. Similar to saving money for future financial needs, regular physical exercise may build physiological reserves that become critical during a health crisis.
Dr. Nakade noted the impact of this study on clinical practice: “Although the nature of this study does not allow us to establish causality, our study supports more inclusive and viable exercise recommendations for older patients, which leads us to consider the “muscle banking impact.”
The study also highlights opportunities for technological innovation in heart failure management. Wearable devices and digital health platforms may play a crucial role in tracking activities, providing personalized exercise advice, and potentially detecting early signs of physical decline.
Dr. Yuya Matsue, another member of the research team, believes that the findings can reshape how clinicians deal with heart failure management. Doctors are not focusing on medications and postdiagnostic interventions, but paying more attention to preventive physical exercise, especially for patients at risk.
These insights have a significant impact on the growing burden of heart failure in health care systems around the world. Encouraging regular physical exercise in older people may reduce hospitalization rates and improve the prognosis of hospitalization.
Researchers stress that even the lowest levels of physical activity, such as walking or moderate exercise, demonstrate the benefits of this population. This accessibility makes it particularly relevant to patients who may be intimidated by more intensive exercise regimens.
As our global population ages, the number of heart failure continues to increase. This study offers the hope that simple lifestyle modifications implemented early may help mitigate some of the worst-case scenarios. For those suffering from heart failure or at risk, the message is clear: Start moving now – Your future self may be grateful for your life longer, more functional life.
If you find this piece useful, consider supporting our work with a one-time or monthly donation. Your contribution allows us to continue to bring you accurate, thought-provoking scientific and medical news that you can trust. Independent reporting requires time, effort, and resources, and your support makes it possible for us to continue exploring stories that are important to you. Together, we can ensure that important discoveries and developments attract those who need them the most.
