Abstract

Background and aim:  Chronic lung problems are one of the main causes of disability in older adults. These diseases negatively affect the quality of life and functional capacity of these people, due to the interaction between the normal aging process and the pathophysiology. However, pulmonary reconditioning programs seem to be an effective therapeutic alternative to treat this problem. Despite this, in Costa Rica it is not an option available in all health centers and there is limited evidence on its effectiveness. Therefore, this study attempts to identify the effect of pulmonary rehabilitation on the respiratory function and aerobic capacity of exercise among older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods:  For which a retrospective analysis of the effect of a physical exercise program on ventilatory function and aerobic capacity of exercise in 53 adults with chronic lung disease wasperformed. Data were collected at the National Hospital of Geriatrics and Gerontology - Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, of people who participated in the program between January 2012 and December 2017.

Results:  It was determined that there were statistically significant improvements in respiratory function (p <0.001) and capacity of exercise (p <0.001) of the subjects after participating in the program.

Conclusion:  The pulmonary rehabilitation program improved respiratory function and exercise capacity.

Keywords: cardiorespiratory fitness; exercise; lung disease; older adult