Recovering After Experiencing a Heart Attack in Victoria, BC

Uncategorized  |  February 18, 2019

Heart attack, or acute myocardial infarction (AMI), survivors often continue to thrive for many more years afterward. However, it’s important for a loved one to have proper medical attention and to make lifestyle changes as recommended by the medical team. Depending on the damage caused by the heart attack, older adults usually require at least 8 weeks of recovery, but some older adults could be prone to complications, which can create the need for longer care.

What type of lifestyle changes might be anticipated after a heart attack?

Initially, depression, fear, and anger might emerge. Fortunately, once routine activities resume, the negative emotions tend to fade. It’s essential for your older loved one to rest and sleep well, but it’s just as important that hobbies and normal life resumes, also. Sharing feelings with close family and friends, clergy or a support group is a healthy activity.

The patient will feel weak for at least the first week home from the hospital. Heart attacks damage heart muscle so fatigue can be expected. Remaining in bed makes the body even weaker. When the older adult gets home, he or she should be able to dress, bathe, and take care of personal hygiene pretty well. The physician will prescribe walking short distances to build energy, strength, and stamina. Slowly, adding in some cooking, cleaning and laundry will help the adult feel independent again. Before living independently, an older patient may need to learn energy-conserving techniques from an occupational therapist or professional caregiver. Strenuous activities like lifting, pushing and pulling heavy objects need to be avoided until the attending physician approves.

A healthy diet will probably be suggested with some food restrictions. Whole foods, like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can be consumed, along with small amounts of high-quality protein foods. Complex carbohydrates can be consumed to increase energy, but avoid simple carbs and sugary foods.

Medications to prevent blood clots and improve heart performance might be prescribed. Other prescriptions for irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, or pain might be advised, also. Proper dosage, including time of day, and whether the dose should be taken on an empty stomach must be considered. An older adult may need medication reminders.

There are many lifestyle changes to anticipate after a heart attack, but Comfort Keepers® can be a great help to you or your loved one. Our compassionate caregivers help provide transportation to medical appointments, do light housekeeping, and prepare meals. Patients need to be supported physically, mentally and emotionally while recuperating at home after a heart attack. Contact us today and ask about how we can help during post-heart attack recovery.

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