Exercise for Frail, Elderly Patients with Acute Heart Failure — A Strong Step Forward

   This editorial discusses the REHAB-HF trial, which evaluated tailored exercise rehabilitation for frail, elderly patients hospitalized with acute heart failure. Unlike prior studies that excluded such patients, REHAB-HF enrolled participants with a mean age of 73 and multiple comorbidities, demonstrating meaningful improvements in physical function. The intervention was initiated early and focused on personalized, multidomain training. At 3 months, significant gains were observed in Short Physical Performance Battery scores (mean difference: 1.5 points; P<0.001), 6-minute walk distance (+34 meters), gait speed (+0.12 m/s), and quality-of-life scores (KCCQ +7.1 points). Benefits extended to mood improvements (Geriatric Depression Scale-15) and possibly fall prevention. However, hospitalization and mortality rates remained unchanged. The editorial praises the program’s practicality and scalability, asserting that even frail heart failure patients can benefit from structured rehabilitation that enhances physical capacity and emotional well-being.

   This editorial discusses the REHAB-HF trial, which evaluated tailored exercise rehabilitation for frail, elderly patients hospitalized with acute heart failure. Unlike prior studies that excluded such patients, REHAB-HF enrolled participants with a mean age of 73 and multiple comorbidities, demonstrating meaningful improvements in physical function. The intervention was initiated early and focused on personalized, multidomain training. At 3 months, significant gains were observed in Short Physical Performance Battery scores (mean difference: 1.5 points; P<0.001), 6-minute walk distance (+34 meters), gait speed (+0.12 m/s), and quality-of-life scores (KCCQ +7.1 points). Benefits extended to mood improvements (Geriatric Depression Scale-15) and possibly fall prevention. However, hospitalization and mortality rates remained unchanged. The editorial praises the program’s practicality and scalability, asserting that even frail heart failure patients can benefit from structured rehabilitation that enhances physical capacity and emotional well-being.