Shopping tours for cardiac patients

Abstract

A pilot study was carried out in Spring 1998 to evaluate the feasibility of providing a shopping tour as part of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme at St Vincent's University Hospital. The aim was to assist cardiac patients with the practical aspects of dietary change by demonstrating healthy low fat choices at the point of purchase. Patients participating in the Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme attended the shopping tour having already attended a nutrition education session. Spouses/partners were also invited to attend. This report outlines how the tour was developed and the positive response from patients recorded in the evaluation process.