Cognition and health-related behaviors affect each other in many ways. Having serious medical diagnoses, such as those that qualify patients for cardiac or pulmonary rehab, is often associated with deficits in cognition. These deficits (issues with planning, switching between tasks, impulsivity etc.) can cause difficulties in managing treatment for chronic conditions. This session will examine the research on how cognition predicts adherence to cardiac rehabilitation and other health-related behaviors. Additionally, how cognitive characteristics are affected by participation in structured exercise programs will be discussed. Finally, possible strategies for supporting patients to overcome these challenges will be reviewed.