Effects of Low-Intensity Exercise-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation on Cardiometabolic and Functional Outcomes in an Older Adult: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Older adults after coronary artery bypass grafting may experience reduced functional capacity. Objective: This case report evaluated individualized low-intensity cardiac rehabilitation after coronary artery bypass grafting. Method: A 62-year-old man with coronary artery disease and multiple cardiovascular risk factors underwent a six-week phase II cardiac rehabilitation program. Functional, physical, and metabolic outcomes were assessed before and after rehabilitation. Result and Discussion: After six weeks, the patient completed 100% of rehabilitation sessions without cardiovascular or exercise-related complications. Functional capacity improved from 4.60 to 8.74 metabolic equivalents, six-minute walk distance increased from 264 to 444 meters, handgrip strength improved from 8/10 kg to 14/16 kg, and quadriceps strength increased from 10.4/10.4 kg to 16.8/16.8 kg. Physical activity increased from low to moderate levels, while HbA1c, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol showed favorable trends. Fear of recurrent cardiac events was resolved, allowing independent exercise participation. Conclusions: Individualized low-intensity exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation was safe and improved functional capacity, muscular fitness, physical activity, and cardiometabolic outcomes