Scandinavian journal of caring sciences
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This study aimed to evaluate the short- and long-term effects of 4-week inpatient rehabilitation on health-related quality of life (HRQL), anxiety and depression in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and investigate the influence of clinical and socio-demographical factors on unaltered or improved HRQL after discharge. ⋯ Short-term benefits on HRQL and depression after rehabilitation relapsed at 6-month follow-up, but without any further deterioration from baseline. Living alone may be beneficial to maintain or improve HRQL after discharge.