This discussion has particular implications for those involved in the care of the older patient with cardiac disease Without increased attention to research that addresses exercise and aging, decisions about the future activity of the elderly person who has sustained a coronary event may be biased by subjective notions. The question remains regarding whether this individual will be given the same options for rehabilitation as one who happens to be middle-aged. Clearly, there is a need to study the responses to exercise of the elderly with and without diagnosed heart disease. There is also need for a greater number of longitudinal studies such as those of Robinson et al. These studies might compare the exercise responses of active, inactive, and athletic individuals from young adulthood to old age.