Graduation Term

Spring 2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Mennonite College of Nursing

Committee Chair

Marilyn Prasun

Committee Member

John Blakeman

Committee Member

Annette Hubbell

Committee Member

Matthew Hesson-McInnis

Abstract

This dissertation comprises three manuscripts intended for publication that explore the use of exercise therapy in people with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF). The first manuscript provides a review of the literature on the impact of exercise therapy on reported depression levels in people with HFpEF. The results of this review suggest that exercise therapy can improve self-reported depression levels among people with HFpEF. However, more robust studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of exercise therapy on depression among people with HFpEF.

The second manuscript describes a feasibility study that examined the impact of exercise therapy on exercise tolerance, dyspnea, exertion, depression, fatigue, and quality of life in people with HFpEF. The exercise therapy intervention was an individualized walking program. The walking program was demonstrated to be safe and effective for people with HFpEF. Improvements were observed in exercise tolerance and quality of life. Specific results are shared in this manuscript.

The third manuscript outlines the challenges and lessons learned from conducting a feasibility clinical research study that focused on an individualized home walking program among people with HFpEF. Four of the main lessons for a successful feasibility study include: 1) ensuring proper site selection to facilitate recruitment, 2) gaining buy-in from key stakeholders, 3) ensuring team members have proper training, and 4) maintaining open communication with all team members.

Access Type

Dissertation-Open Access

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Available for download on Saturday, July 15, 2028

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