Abstract 16963: A Novel Rehabilitation Intervention for Older Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: the REHAB-HF Pilot Study

Introduction: Exercise training improves outcomes in patients with chronic, stable heart failure (HF). However, little is known regarding patients with acute decompensated HF (ADHF) who are typically elderly, frail, with multiple co-morbidities and frequent rehospitalizations. Hypothesis: A novel rehabilitation intervention in older patients hospitalized for ADHF will be feasible and safe, improve physical function and reduce rehospitalizations. Methods: This was a 3-site, randomized, attention-controlled pilot study of a tailored, progressive, multi-domain (strength, balance, mobility and endurance) rehabilitation intervention beginning in the hospital and continuing for 12 weeks post-discharge. The primary outcome was the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score, a standardized measure of physical function in frail elderly, assessed by a blinded observer; the secondary outcome was rehospitalizations. Results: We enrolled 27 patients aged 60-98 years: 59% women, 56% African-American, 41% preserved...