Module 9 Pull Down Navigation - Select a Page to View ------------------- Introduction What is an Advance Care Plan? Importance of an Advance Care Plan Advance Care Plan Components Getting Started on an Advance Care Plan Questions for Your Doctor or Nurse Discussions with Your Doctor or Nurse Making Care Choices as Heart Failure Progresses What to Do with Your Advance Care Plan Changing Your Mind Care for the Caretakers Terms Commonly Used in Advance Care Planning Learn More About Heart Failure

Care for the Caretakers

Taking care of a family member or friend with heart failure can be a source of pride and a way to express love for that person. However, caretakers can get tired too and may need support themselves. This is particularly true as the person with heart failure gets sicker and needs more help. Caretakers may ignore their own health, because they are so busy caring for their relative or friend with heart failure.

Asking for help from other family members and friends or from home health nurses and aides can help prevent caretakers from feeling overly burdened. Supporting caretakers as they help a family member or friend who has heart failure is an important part of helping families.