According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular diseases are the nation’s number one killer. Millions of Americans care for a loved one who is recovering from a cardiac event such as heart attack or stroke, and it can be a challenge. People recovering from a major cardiac event are typically forced into making lifestyle changes that can be frustrating not only for themselves, but for their caregivers as well. They also may not be able to do the same activities as before the heart attack.
If you are caring for a loved one recovering from a heart attack or stroke, here are a few other things to be aware of:
- Expect your loved one to have actively changing emotions and possible fears of death.
- Allow time to adjust and be sure to express how both you and your loved one feel.
- Support your loved one in making necessary lifestyle changes to prevent a re-occurrence or complication.
- Make future plans and help your loved one start “living” again.
- Accept that your roles may be temporarily reversed.
- Take the time to simply listen.
- When speaking, try to use I statements rather than you statements, such as “I feel frustrated” rather than “You make me feel frustrated.”
Above all, be patient. The rehabilitation process enables many people to do much more than they ever expected, and eventually the up and down emotions of recovery should settle down. The caregivers at Heaven at Home can help patients recovering from heart attack or stroke live a healthier lifestyle while they recuperate. Contact us today in the Dallas, TX area to learn how our home care services can help.