Your Elderly Relative Has Had A Heart Attack — How Does This Impact Long-Term Health And Care?
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Your Elderly Relative Has Had A Heart Attack — How Does This Impact Long-Term Health And Care?

Having an elderly loved one experience a heart attack is understandably frightening, difficult to handle, and may raise serious questions about their long-term physical and mental health. Unfortunately, seniors are at greater risk of suffering from a heart attack than other age groups because they often have existing cardiovascular health problems or may have spent many years engaging in unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. In the aftermath of a heart attack, care for a senior loved one can become particularly critical.

The Potential Long-Term Effects Of A Heart Attack

A heart attack can have a considerable physical and mental impact on many patients. 

  • Physical Health: Depending on the severity of a heart attack, a senior may need to attend cardiac rehabilitation sessions, which could require regular outpatient visits for specialized exercise-based therapy. A recovering senior may also have special dietary requirements or need to take medication multiple times per day. It can be challenging for elderly individuals and their families to keep track of necessary medications, nutritious foods, doctor appointments, physical activities and more. Furthermore, someone who has suffered a heart attack in the past may have a higher risk of suffering another one in the future. 
  • Mental Health: In addition to physical health considerations, seniors who experience heart attacks often face emotional pressures as they adjust back into daily life following the incident. Elderly persons with fewer resources and lower levels of social support can be at a higher risk of developing depression or anxiety after suffering from a medical event like this one. Caregivers may need to offer additional support for senior loved ones who have suffered a heart attack. 
  • Financial Considerations: The cost associated with recovering from a heart attack includes two things. Most people know about direct costs related to healthcare treatment such as physician visits, hospitalizations and medicines. However, there can also be a number of indirect cost considerations: lost income due to inability to work while recovering (or lost wages for a family member caring for the individual who had a heart attack); treatments that insurance does not cover; and additional care expenses, including in-home care services. 
  • Insurance Challenges: Many seniors suffer from inadequate insurance coverage, leaving them without enough funds available for medical bills. Unfortunately, many seniors do not realize that they have inadequate coverage until a damaging incident occurs. 

Additional Care Options For Patients After A Heart Attack

There are many additional care options available for seniors who have had a heart attack. Some seniors may require specialized care, or may choose to move into a nursing home or assisted living facility. Others may benefit from an in-home care provider who can help ensure that they receive the high standard of care they need. 

Home Care Can Help Seniors After A Heart Attack

It is essential for the elderly to receive the necessary care and support following a heart attack, in order to help ensure that they regain their strength, protect their emotional and mental well-being, and maximize functioning outcomes. If you have an elderly relative who has had a heart attack recently and you know that they need more care at home, Senior Helpers Madisonville can provide comprehensive information on services offered in Knoxville, Maryville, Madisonville, Loudon and Harriman. Contact us today to learn more about our full range of senior home care services, including companionship care, help with meal planning, and help with activities of daily living.