Role of Exercise in Diastolic Heart Failure

Relationship of Cardiovascular and Muscular Capacity to Daily Functioning in Frail Older Adults

Diastolic heart failure is now being recognized as a key form of heart failure in older people. The focus of this research is to study ways to improve and maintain physical activity and functioning. This knowledge may improve the health and well-being in people with diastolic heart failure.

The purpose of this project is to better understand how endurance and fatigue relate to performing daily activities and how we might better improve endurance and reduce fatigue through an exercise program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 60 and over
• Evidence of diastolic dysfunction on echocardiogram
• Normal Left Ventricular Function (LVEF≥50%)
• Heart Failure-NYHA Class II/III
• Able and willing to participate in exercise program
• Able to come to Ann Arbor Michigan for testing

Exclusion Criteria:

• Regularly exercising(30 minute per day, 3 times per week)
• Orthopedic or musculoskeletal condition that limits weight bearing
• Uncontrolled atrial fibrillation
• History of heart valve replacement
• Unstable or serious medical condition (ie. on dialysis, oxygen; severe anemia, uncontrolled blood pressure or coronary artery disease)