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Caregivers need care, too
The demands of managing Heart Failure can be as frustrating for the caregiver as they are for the patient. It’s easy to focus so much on your loved one’s health that you overlook your own well-being, which isn’t good for either of you.
Take care of yourself first
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Stressed? It’s not just you
Caring for a tired or exhausted Heart Failure patient can leave you exhausted, too. Caregivers aged 50+ are more likely to report stress than those in the same age bracket in the general population.
The challenge to your own health
Caregivers of people with Heart Failure have reported high stress, depression symptoms, and poor physical and emotional health. The fact is, you can’t be a great caregiver unless you’re also looking after yourself.
Don’t try to do it alone
Believing you can shoulder the whole responsibility of caregiving yourself is a recipe for burnout. Put together a strong care team of family, friends, and professionals. Then call on them. For driving to appointments, shopping, cooking—whatever’s helpful. And covering for you when you need a break.
Help beyond your inner circle
You’re likely to find advice and support through the American Heart Association. Look for the Caregivers' section ↗ of their website. Get to know the Caregiver Action Network ↗ (formerly the National Family Caregivers Association). And consider joining a caregivers' support group.
Get out more
It doesn’t matter how attached you are. From time to time, taking care of a loved one may leave you feeling drained, even trapped. Don’t wait until frustration and anger get the better of you. Be sure to get out regularly and get away from thoughts of Heart Failure for a while. Meet up with a friend. Go to a movie.
Try togetherness: eat right and exercise every day
If you live in the same house and prepare the meals, it’s only practical to share your loved one’s heart-healthy diet. That may go for activity, too. Whatever activity the doctor approves for the patient, you may want to share.
Healthy living—as vital for you as for your loved one
Neglecting your health won’t help your loved one. Often, what’s good for your Heart Failure patient is also good for you. When you’re juggling chores and errands—and maybe a full-time job—it’s easy to get tired and substitute snacks for meals, or let your own workouts fall by the wayside.
Exercise can help mood—and motivation
Physical activity can ease stress and lower the risk of depression. It can help both mood and motivation. If you’re already committed to daily exercise, keep it up. Walking, swimming, dancing, biking, can all be good options. If not, start with the action plan for a Heart Failure patient.
Sign up for a free Heart Failure Handbook
Get a free Heart Failure Handbook when you register for the Keep It Pumping support program. It’s filled with useful tips and tools to help you manage the condition.
Start prepping for the conversation
Get a Doctor Discussion Guide for a personalized conversation that can help you and your doctor decide on the best ways to manage your Heart Failure.