The effect of exercise on the quality of life amongst people with a respiratory disease

Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation is an evidence-based, multidisciplinary, comprehensive intervention for patients with chronic respiratory diseases who are symptomatic and whose daily living activities are often restricted. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to improve the physical and emotional condition of people with chronic respiratory disease and to promote long-term adherence to health-enhancing behavior. Methods: This study was a semi-experimental study on 50 patients who were older than 60 years and had chronic respiratory disease. The patients were divided randomly in to two groups. In the experiment group the exercise program was initiated with a pattern of 3 times per week for 2 months, according to the walking check list. The walking distant for the patients was 400 meters, following a physician’s approval and its duration was 15 to 35 minutes each time. At the end of the 2 months intervention, the quality of life was evaluated in both groups for the second time. Results: the results showed a statistical significant relation between the quality of life in patients and some of their demographic characteristics such as age, sex, marital status, level of education, duration of the disease and smoking(P<0.05). It was also proved that a regular walking program can lead to an increase in the quality of life of patients with moderate COPD (P<0.05). Conclusion: Pulmonary rehabilitation programs improved quality of life in chronic respiratory disease.