AFib is a common kind of heart arrhythmia. For some people, it’s merely a nuisance that never causes any problems, but for others, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke. It happens when the electrical signals that control the way the heart beats become chaotic. If your aging relative suffers from AFib, there are ways they can manage their condition, such as the tips below.

Communicate with the Doctor

It’s important that the older adult speaks openly with their doctor about their AFib. They should report new symptoms and let the doctor know how the condition is impacting their life. Also, if the doctor prescribes blood thinners, seniors need to ask about how their medication may interact with other medications or with certain foods. Medications for AFib need to be taken according to instructions and should not be discontinued without talking to the doctor. If side effects occur, tell the doctor.

Know the Triggers

Some things can bring on an episode of AFib. Knowing the triggers can help your older family member to avoid them. Some common triggers of AFib are:

• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Caffeine
• Missing a dose of medication
• Infections
• Heart failure

Manage Stress

Worrying too much and episodes of anxiety can cause the heart to beat faster, making AFib worse. It can be a vicious circle, too, since an episode of AFib may make the older adult even more anxious. Managing stress can decrease the chances of having an episode or help to stop one. Some ways older adults can reduce stress in their lives are by exercising, listening to soothing music, deep breathing exercises, or talking to someone.

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Eating a heart-healthy diet can reduce the risks of suffering from other kinds of cardiovascular disease that AFib raises the risks for, such as heart attack and stroke. A heart-healthy diet is one that focuses on fruits and vegetables. In fact, half of the older adult’s plate should be filled with plant-based foods. They should also eat lean proteins, including fatty fish that are high in omega-3s.

Senior care can assist older adults to manage AFib at home. Senior care providers can remind them when it is time to take medications and report any apparent side effects to a family caregiver. Senior care providers can also prepare meals that use healthy ingredients, like vegetables and fish. In addition, senior care providers can be an important part of managing stress in older adults since having someone to assist them can help them to worry less.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable Elder Care in Braselton, GA, and surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

Sources
Webmd.com
Cardiosmart.org
Everydayhealth.com

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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