Keeping My Parents Happy

If you recently suffered an MI (myocardial infarction), also known as a heart attack, then you may be unable to live alone soon after your cardiac event because of lingering chest pain or prolonged weakness. While in time you may gain more independence so that you can once again live safely by yourself, you may need to consider hiring a senior home care services provider in the meantime. Here are ways a senior home care provider can assist you while you are recovering from your myocardial infarction.

ADL Support 

Many people are weak and fatigued following an MI, especially when it has caused significant damage to the heart muscle. Because of this, you may be unable to do things for yourself such as cooking, cleaning, taking care of your pets, and performing your ADLs. Also known as the "activities of daily living," ADLs include showering or bathing, brushing your teeth, getting dressed, eating, and combing your hair.

The senior home care services provider can either assist you with these tasks, or if you are profoundly weak, they can give you a bath, help you walk, feed you, and put your clothes on for you. In time, as you heal and participate in a cardiac rehab program at the hospital, you will gain more strength and self-confidence to be more independent so that you can do more things for yourself again. 

Vital Signs Monitoring

Your primary care physician may recommend vital signs monitoring following your MI. If you do not have a home blood pressure monitoring device, or if you are too weak to use one, a senior home care services provider can help. They can assess your blood pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate. If any of your readings are abnormal, the healthcare provider will let you, your family, and your doctor know.

Vital signs monitoring is important because your doctor may need to base the dosage of your cardiovascular medications on your blood pressure readings and pulse. For example, if you are taking cardiac medications, such as beta-blockers, and if the senior home care services provider determines that your blood pressure is very low, your doctor may need to lower your dosage. Doing so with help prevent you from passing out or from developing bradycardia, also known as a too-slow heart rate.

If you recently had a heart attack, consider the many benefits a senior home care services provider can offer you. When you are receiving the care and support you need, you can better focus on enjoying a speedy recovery.

Contact a local senior home care service to learn more.