What to Expect Recovering from a Heart Attack

Senior Heart Health  |  February 18, 2019

Everything Seniors Need to Know About Heart Attack Recovery

Recovering from a Heart Attack | With proper medical attention, heart attack survivors can continue to live for many more years, however, their lives might be considerably changed. Depending on the severity of the heart attack, also known as acute myocardial infarction (AMI), people over 65 may need at least 8 weeks of recovery time, but adults further in age may be even more prone to complications, which would necessitate additional care.

What lifestyle changes can be expected after a heart attack?

Depression, fear, and anger affect at least one-fourth of heart attack victims afterward. The good news is that when regular daily activities resume, these negative effects tend to diminish. It’s important for your loved one to get rest and good sleep, but it’s also wise to get back to hobbies that were previously enjoyed. Sharing feelings with family members, a close friend, clergy, or support group is healthy.

For at least the first week a heart attack patient is home, he or she will feel weak or exhausted. This is normal because heart attacks damage heart muscle and bed rest in the hospital creates further weakness from lack of activity. Follow doctors’ advice, of course, but when a patient arrives home, there are usually expectations of the patient being able to dress daily, bathe, and take care of personal hygiene. Energy, strength, and stamina increase from walking as prescribed by the physician. A slow, incremental return to home duties such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry will help the patient feel normal again, although he or she may need to learn energy-conserving techniques from an occupational therapist or caregiver. Lifting, pushing, and pulling heavy objects must be avoided until the doctor approves.

A heart-healthy diet will most likely be recommended, often somewhat restricted. Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes with small amounts of high-quality protein foods are best. Complex carbohydrates can increase energy reserves, but simple carbs and high-sugar foods are best avoided.

Medications may be prescribed to prevent blood clots and improve heart performance. Prescriptions may be given for irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, or pain and discomfort. The proper dosage must be taken exactly as prescribed, sometimes with food or on an empty stomach, and sometimes alternating days or times of the day.

Comfort Keepers® in Edmonton Can Help with In-Home Elderly Care!

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help. Comfort Keepers®’ trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. 

Companionship and Interactive Caregiving™

Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Moreover, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind: empathy. Empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Learn more about our unique service offering by contacting the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office. If you live in Devon, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact Comfort Keepers at 780-465-4665.

Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing Program Offered by Alberta Health Services. Is Invoicing the Right Option for You?  Read more about the program HERE.

Comfort Keepers Edmonton is here to help you and your loved ones get the best care possible. Awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. Our Edmonton location has achieved the highest available certification in Canada for Home Care services, clearly demonstrating Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton.

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