Objective To improve lung function and quality of life of patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). Methods A total of 188 patients with AECOPD were divided into a control group of 90 and an intervention group of 98 according to their admission time. Both groups received standardized treatment. The control group received conventional nursing and exercise training in pulmonary rehabilitation, while the intervention group was given a 4-grade rehabilitation training that was developed based on the BODE (incorporating body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea and exercise capacity) index of the patients. The effect was evaluated after 1 year of implementation. Results A total of 85 cases in the control group and 92 in the intervention group completed the study. The values of FEV1, FEV1/FVC% and 6-min walk distance, as well as the physical, social and emotional function of quality of life in the intervention group were significantly better compared with the control group after the intervention (P<0.05, P<0.01). Conclusion The delivery of graded rehabilitation training based on the BODE index for patients with AECOPD can effectively and continuously improve their lung function and exercise tolerance, thus to enhance quality of life.