After diagnosis…
We know that having support from family and friends is always important and much needed in all aspects of our lives, but what happens after someone we love receives a heart condition diagnosis? What if a family member had a heart attack? How can we support them through the process of recovery and how can we become better caregivers and bring awareness about the changes in their lives? Whether they are immediate family or someone we see every day through other circles, letting them know that you are there for them, ready to give support, is a very important first step.
1. Educate yourself. You do not have to fill your home with books or read the latest medical journals. Understanding their condition and having knowledge on what is happening to their bodies and future changes can be very beneficial and help you to support them better. Find articles online specific to their diagnosis, read tips on how to help them cope, or look up blog posts.
2. Be flexible. Everyone lives a busy life these days. However, someone who needs your help after a diagnosis or even a heart condition-related surgery, might need your help more often that you think. To start, depending on your relationship, you might want to clear your schedule and be easy to reach in case they need help around their home, be driven to appointments, therapy, or even help with their medication refills. This goes a long way and would be appreciated.
3. A heart condition diagnosis or recovery time after a major surgery can bring up a lot of emotions. Fear, worry, depression, anger: these are normal and require empathy. Finding a great support group not only for the person going through this but also the caregiver can be a great way for everyone to have people around them who are going through the same situation and understand on a different level.
4. Help them with their living arrangements. Does this person live alone? Do they need you to clear up space for medical equipment? Do they need help with making their home more accessible? This can make their days better and more comfortable. People want to know they are capable of doing things like they used to and they like to feel a sense of normalcy. Even though at times that can be tough, finding ways in which they can have more access to their normal lifestyle around their home can be very accommodating.
5. Know the warning signs. Ask their provider about what you should look for in case their health declines and what to do in case of an emergency. Depending on their condition, the warning signs might vary, but it is always good to be ahead of the game and know what to expect and how to manage the situation while medical help arrives. Your loved one might already have an action plan personalized by their doctor to tackle any situations that may arise. If they do not have one, then you can talk to their provider to have something personalized for them.
As family, caregivers, or friends, taking care of the people we love can come with many stressors. However, it is something that we choose to do for them to make their lives better and comfortable. It is not an easy task and there will be many challenges, but they know and truly love that they have someone like you in their lives to help them through their days.
