Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
Toronto Rehab’s
Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Program delivers results.
Research shows that people who participate in cardiac rehabilitation programs after experiencing a major heart event cut their risk of dying from another cardiac event by as much as 50 per cent.
Our program helps people with heart disease improve their cardiac strength and fitness. It also helps them reduce their chance of future heart problems by making long-lasting lifestyle changes.
The program lasts six to 12 months. It is designed for people with a history of:
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heart attack
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heart surgery, valve surgery or angioplasty
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arrhythmia, angina or other heart conditions
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a high risk of heart disease due to family history, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes
Providing a Safe, Personalized Program
Our interprofessional health care team provides all participants with individualized care and support.
Participants begin the program with a cardiopulmonary exercise assessment. This measures their baseline heart fitness. Based on their needs and abilities, the team creates a personalized program of exercise and education.
Participants attend one supervised exercise class a week at our Rumsey Centre. Classes are offered in the daytime and evening, Monday to Friday. Each class consists of:
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a warm-up and stretching routine
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aerobic (walking) and resistance training (hand held weights)
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an interactive education session, and
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peer-to-peer support
Individuals are expected to carry out their own exercise program at home four more times a week. All participants keep a weekly diary to help them with their progress.
Exercise specialists work closely with participants to help them achieve their goals.
Additional Support for Lifestyle Changes
Participants may also receive one-to-one counselling sessions with a psychologist or social worker to deal with issues such as depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, anger, and social and emotional issues.
Dieticians help participants develop personal nutritional plans.
Educational lectures provide information to help individuals adopt long-lasting lifestyle changes. Topics covered include:
Special evening lectures and workshops provide opportunities for family members to participate.
Getting Started
Your doctor must refer you to this program. Ask your doctor to complete the
referral form and fax it to (416) 425-0301.
Maintaining Heart Health
Heart health is lifelong commitment. To help program graduates maintain their lifestyle changes, Toronto Rehab offers the program
Heart Health for Life presented by Scotiabank.