February 19, 2018

Tips From EveryStep: It's a Matter of Heart

If you or a loved one lives with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) you understand that managing the disease can be a daily struggle. Fluid retention, swelling, shortness of breath and anxiety are all common symptoms of CHF. As the disease progresses, patients frequently find themselves in the emergency room or being re-admitted to the hospital because of these symptoms. This cycle is frustrating and exhausting. It robs patients of precious time they could be spending with friends and family. The National Institutes of Health estimates that 5.7 million people currently live with CHF. Each year another 700,000 people are diagnosed with it.

Living with Advanced Heart Failure

Advanced heart failure is a term used when the condition has progressed to a point where traditional therapies and symptom management are no longer working. If you are living with the later stages of congestive heart failure, work with home care or hospice care to develop a customized plan of care to help reduce return-to-hospital visits, increase comfort and gain education about the disease process. The team approach used at EveryStep can help to manage both the symptoms and pain caused by congestive heart failure and offer support for family caregivers.

In-home care may be right for you or a loved one if you answer “yes” to any of the following questions:

  • Has the patient shown noticeable limitation of physical activity?
  • Has the patient shown reduced heart function?
  • Does the patient need assistance with activities of daily living?
  • Is the patient not suitable for, or declined a surgical procedure?

Other Factors

  • Documented weight loss and/or reduced food intake
  • Frequent hospitalizations in the last 6 months
  • Change in level of awareness
  • Impaired breathing while at rest

Need help for yourself or someone in your care? For more information, call us at (855) 867-4692.

EveryStep Care & Support Services is a non-profit, community-based programs which provide care and support to patients, family members and their caregivers during chronic or serious illness, recovery or rehabilitation. Our experienced and compassionate staff can assist family caregivers in understanding the importance of nutrition, exercise, social ties, mental and spiritual health, and how all these things can contribute to wellbeing for individuals of all ages.