Effects of telerehabilitation on cardiac remodeling and hemodynamics parameters in hypertensive older adults: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to assess the effects of telerehabilitation with multimodal exercise on cardiac remodeling and blood pressure in hypertensive older adults. Methods Thirty-two hypertensive older adults (66.7 ± 5.33 years; 29.5 ± 4.22 Kg/m2; 24 female) were randomized into either a telerehabilitation or a control group. Echocardiographic parameters and blood pressure were assessed before and after the 16-week intervention. The exercise program was supervised, individualized, and offered 3×/week via videoconference. Results Blood pressure significantly decreased after telerehabilitation when compared to the control group, presenting a large effect size. The moderate effect size in relative and posterior wall thickness ( g = 0.63; g = 0.61), shortening fraction ( g = 0.54), and ejection fraction ( g = 0.68). Conclusion As a preliminary study, telerehabilitation is favorable to promote a moderate clinical improvement of some cardiac morphofunctional parameters and reduce blood pressure in hypertensive older adults.