A senior who just had a heart attack requires aftercare until the patient is fully recovered. But, what exactly is “fully recovered” and what kind of aftercare does your patient really need?

When you are looking after a senior who just had a heart attack, expect a long—if not tedious—way to recovery. And, indeed, it calls for a lot of patience on the caregiver’s part. While a patient may have spent a fairly short time in the hospital after the attack, that doesn’t mean that the senior is already well. One of the most notable changes in a senior’s life after an attack is the amount of maintenance drugs they are required to take everyday.

Thanks to the advent of technology, a person who suffered a heart attack can resume near-normal life with proper care and without any lasting effect. Do take note of the words “proper care” as this is where the hard work comes in! However, if done right, your senior can even enjoy a healthier body than that of what it was before the attack.

RIGHT AFTER DISCHARGE

As the caregiver, you must be informed of the patient’s followup checkups with the attending physician. If you missed this, you can ask nurses as doctors leave their instructions for them to follow. A therapy is also needed so you must arrange schedules with the rehabilitation clinic. Usually there are informative flyers that nurses give to caregivers so they will be better equipped in caring for the patient. Take some time reading this and ask questions when needed. There will also be medications which your patient should take religiously and as prescribed. If cholesterol levels are too high, dietary changes are necessary.

If your senior happen to have two doctors, make sure they know about each other’s prescribed medications as drug-to-drug reactions are usually fatal and irreversible. In addition to that, inform the doctors of what medications your senior is currently taking—or was taking prior to the attack.

AT HOME

Your road to recovery should be taken nice and slow. Slowly and gradually, increase physical activities but always be on the look out for signs of physical stress. When spotted, cease activity and rest. Exercise programs for the heart are usually available upon request in most therapy clinics—just make sure your doctor approves it first. Your senior may feel unstable emotionally. This is understandable and should be treated with care and respect as to avoid depression. Undergo counseling if needed. It is important that the senior becomes attuned with his or her body as they are the only ones who can tell you if there is something different in it. With proper education, your senior will be able to express themselves more clearly.