Exercise Adherence Issues, Behavior Change Readiness, and Self-Motivation in Hospitalized Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

Purpose: Exercise and increased physical activity are important lifestyle modifications for patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influence patient adoption of exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle in hospitalized patients with CHD. Methods: Fifty-one patients hospitalized for a CHD-related diagnosis were prospectively recruited from a regional medical center. Participants completed 3 self-report survey instruments during their inpatient hospitalization—Exercise Adherence Questionnaire, Change Readiness Assessment, and Self-Motivation Scale for Compliance. Results: Thirty-two men (64%) and 18 women (36%) with a mean age of 65 years (±11.5) participated in this study. Using the Exercise Adherence Questionnaire, participants identified more motivators than barriers to exercise. Based on Change Readiness Assessment responses, only one-third of participants (33%) were exercising regularly. The mean Self-Motivation Scale for Compliance score was below the instrument threshold score, indicating low self-motivation and compliance, and a high likelihood of quitting exercise. Conclusion: Study findings describe current attitudes toward exercise, factors that encourage and limit exercise participation as well as likelihood of maintaining an exercise program in a group of hospitalized patients with CHD. For many patients with CHD, the acute care hospital stay may be the only opportunity to receive education about exercise, adoption of positive health behaviors, and self-management skills. Also, the medical event and the resulting hospitalization itself can be a powerful motivator for positive health behavior changes.