Published: February 3, 2025
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A heart attack is a major, life-threatening event that can require extensive rehabilitation for weeks, months, or even years after it happens. While you’re in the hospital, doctors will stabilize your health and make sure you’re on the right medications. But what happens after you go home?
Several years ago, researchers presented a study at the American Heart Association’s Quality of Care & Outcomes Research Scientific Sessions. The study found heart attack survivors who receive home health care are less likely to be readmitted to the hospital within the first month, compared to those who don’t receive home health care.
How home health care helps
After a heart attack or other major cardiac event, you must get used to a “new normal” that involves more medications, diet adjustments, and physical activity. Traditions Health skilled home health staff members can help you adjust and ensure you follow your doctor’s advice.
Medication assistance
Even without heart disease, it sometimes seems like the older you get, the more pills you must take. Then, after a heart attack, the medication list grows even longer. Not only do you have to remember to take your medications at the right time, but you also need to make sure you have the correct dosage. If you get something wrong, you may need a doctor’s help to get back on track.
Our nurses are specially trained to help with medications, reminding you when you’re supposed to take them and helping you determine when you need to ask your doctor for further guidance.
Diet planning
A heart-healthy diet is a big part of your recovery. Such a diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Following this diet also means limiting unhealthy fats and reducing sodium and salt.
Some people need just a few diet adjustments. Others must change their eating habits completely. Our home health care providers can help you plan your menu, determine which foods you should remove from your pantry and refrigerator, and spot dietary restrictions caused by your medications.
Physical therapy and activity assistance
After a heart attack, your body weakens, and you will likely need physical therapy and cardiac rehabilitation to regain your health. Our physical and occupational therapists can come to your home and help you with exercises, so you can avoid trips to the hospital.
Trust Traditions Health
When you start working with Traditions Health, our staff members will meet you where you are with the health care you need. They will spend time getting to know you as an individual so they can help you set goals and help you develop a heart-healthy lifestyle. They will also provide education about heart disease, what you can expect following a heart attack, and when you should seek additional medical help.
A heart attack can be life changing. But you don’t have to go it alone — we can help make the lifestyle transition a little easier.
Contact us today to see how we can help you to take control of your health and remain independent after a heart attack.