A heart attack isn’t just frightening to the person it’s happening to, but also those he or she cares about. A heart attack can completely change a person’s life. Depending on the severity of the attack, it could leave a person unable to do many of the things he or she once took for granted.
Elder care is a great benefit for those who have suffered a heart attack recently. Even if the attack was considered mild by medical standards, an elder care provider may offer a wide range of supports.
It’s also a good idea to pay attention to what the person’s doctor advised them with regard to exercise and other activities.
If your father has recently been discharged from the hospital and sent home (or is about to be), an elder care provider may be able to assist him with a variety of activities, some of which could bring him much needed exercise, which would help his body (and heart) to recover some of the strength it lost.
Below are three such activities your father may be able to do following the heart attack and during his recovery that might be made easier and safer with elder care in his corner.
1. Walking
Elderly Care Hollywood, CA: Seniors and Heart Attacks
The simple act of walking might not seem like all that special, but for a person in their 70s, 80s, or 90s, it could be extremely challenging. Even for someone of relatively good health, walking may prove challenging in those advanced years.
Pushing the pace enough to elevate the heart rate (which is how the heart gets exercise) can be even tougher. An elder care provider can help him stay safe during this seemingly simple activity.
2. Going up and down stairs.
An aging senior may not find walking up and down stairs all that much fun anymore, but it’s a great source of exercise. An elder care worker could support your father as he does this for exercise, or when merely going from the bedroom to the kitchen, or down to a basement to do laundry.
3. Swimming.
Did you know that swimming is one of the best cardiovascular activities for older people? That’s because not only does it work a wide range of muscle groups and get the heart rate elevated, but it is also considered low impact, so it’s safer on the joints.
Just make sure your father has the ‘okay’ from his doctor to do these (or other) activities, even with an elder care provider.