Publications by authors named "Bindu Viswanathan"

Background: Poor self-management of heart failure (HF) contributes to devastating health consequences. Our innovative sensor-controlled digital game (SCDG) integrates data from sensors to trigger game rewards, progress, and feedback based on the real-time behaviors of individuals with HF.

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare daily weight monitoring and physical activity behavior adherence by older adults using an SCDG intervention versus a sensors-only intervention in a feasibility randomized controlled trial.

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Background: Psychological responses have been reported for some patients after the insertion of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). This study tested the effects of a psychoeducational intervention on anxiety, depressive symptoms, functional status, and health resource use during the first year after ICD implantation.

Methods: ICD patients (n = 246) were randomized to usual care (UC), group (GRP), or telephone counseling (TC) intervention that included education, symptom management, and coping skill training.

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Gender differences in physical and psychological health and responses in persons receiving implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) have been reported but are not well delineated. This study examined symptoms of pain and sleep difficulties, functional status, and psychological responses in 180 (75%) men and 60 (25%) women before and immediately following their first ICD implantation. Women were significantly younger, less likely to be married, and had less history of coronary artery disease than men.

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Background: Stroke recovery is a dynamic process for stroke survivors, and shorter lengths of stay in healthcare settings shift the care of the survivors to family caregivers. The physical and mental sequelae after stroke and the family's response to this catastrophic event may have deleterious effects on caregivers.

Objective: To examine the influence of stroke survivors' motor function, their memory and behavior changes, and the family conflict surrounding stroke recovery on the mental and physical health of caregivers during the subacute recovery period.

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