This study examined the number of repetitions, increase in heart rate, increase in blood pressure, and rating of perceived exertion of subjects performing the most-preferred and least-preferred tasks from a predetermined list under purposeful and nonpurposeful conditions. Twenty healthy women completed the four experimental tests in random order for a period of 10 min each. The results indicated that there was no significant interaction (p greater than .05) between task choice and condition, thus implying that the subjects' performance was not influenced by task preference regardless of whether the activity was purposeful or nonpurposeful. Comparisons between the purposeful and nonpurposeful conditions revealed that the increase in heart rate and rating of perceived exertion were significantly higher (p less than .05) during nonpurposeful activity for both the most-preferred and the least-preferred tasks. On the basis of these results, it is recommended that therapists use purposeful, or goal-directed, activities in their practice, even if they are unable to provide their patients with a choice of therapeutic tasks.

The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have gone through significant changes over the past decade. This article examines how the treatment and management of COPD has become more individualized. In addition, complications and medication are evaluated and the importance of diet including the patient perspective when designing a treatment plan is discussed. Finally, new advances in technology and research, clinical communication, exercise and disease education is introduced which helps in the efforts on COPD management.