Module 7 Pull Down Navigation - Select a Page to View ------------------- Introduction Helping with Symptom Monitoring Helping with Diet Recommendations Helping with Activity and Exercise Other Ways to Help with the Treatment Plan Teaching Good Self-Care Behaviors Helping with Daily Activities Emotional and Social Support Other Ways to Provide Support Care for the Caretakers Learn More About Heart Failure

Helping with Daily Activities for Heart Failure

Some people with heart failure are motivated to practice self-care without much support. Others enjoy or need the help and support of family and friends to manage daily activities. Honest communication about goals, needs, and desires is important. The patient's doctor or nurse can also assist in making connections with people and groups who are available to help. Do not hesitate to use them to provide a link to others.

You can help a person with heart failure remain independent but safe by discussing topics such as driving and living arrangements and providing assistance as necessary.

Driving with Heart Failure

There are no set rules for heart failure and driving a car. Factors to consider are whether the person with heart failure has physical or mental changes that impair his or her ability to drive. Such changes include excessive fatigue, decreased alertness, confusion, memory lapses, or other signs of slowed mental processes. If you are concerned, discuss it with the patient's doctor or nurse.

Living Arrangements

There are no set rules on the best living arrangements for a person with heart failure. Each situation is different. A person with heart failure may want to stay in a house or neighborhood that is familiar, even though it may not be as practical as another type of living arrangement.

It is important to discuss the pluses and minuses of moving. Writing down the advantages and disadvantages of the patient moving or staying in his or her current residence can help with the decision-making process.

Support from family or friends can play a role in deciding where the patient should live. For example, family and friends can help with heavy chores such as taking out the garbage, mowing the lawn, grocery shopping, doing the laundry, heavy cleaning, and lifting.

Remember, even if family and friends think they have an ideal solution such as having the person with heart failure move in with them, the change may mean a loss of independence. The move may be easier if the patient recognizes the need for help and support.