ABSTRACT

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death among adult women in most developed countries. Although CHD is perceived to be a predominantly male condition, the number of female CHD deaths since 1989 has surpassed those for men (Wenger, 1994). Moreover, women who survive myocardial infarction (MI) are more likely to be functionally impaired than men (Nickel & Chirikos, 1990). Given the prevalence of CHD among women, it has been predicted that older female heart patients will contribute disproportionately to an already increasing population of elderly people with disabilities. This subpopulation may provide a significant challenge for public health policy makers. The paucity of studies that concentrate on the unique needs of women with CHD renders interventions tailored toward women’s experiences imperative.