Heart failure is a condition in which the heart becomes too weak or too stiff to adequately pump blood through the body. It is typically caused by other underlying health conditions that damage the heart, like coronary artery disease or a faulty heart valve. The disease is chronic and progressive, meaning it does not go away and gets worse over time. If your aging relative has been diagnosed with heart failure, it can be helpful to understand how the disease progresses.

Life Expectancy with Heart Failure

The life expectancy of an older adult with heart failure can depend on several factors, including the kind of heart failure they have and the underlying cause. However, a 2016 study showed that around 50 percent of people diagnosed with heart failure live more than 5 years. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart failure can help to lengthen the seniors life.

Stages of Heart Failure

Doctors describe the progression of heart failure in stages. There are four stages of heart failure, which are:

  • Stage 1: People with this stage dont actually have heart failure, but they are at a high risk of developing it because of other existing conditions. Some conditions that increase the risk of heart failure are diabetes, alcohol abuse, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease. People who have a family history of heart failure may also be considered stage 1.
  • Stage 2: This stage may cause some mild symptoms, but the older adult is still healthy. A person with stage 2 heart failure may have some problems with their heart. However, they may not have symptoms of heart failure yet. Typically, doctors will recommend that these individuals make some lifestyle changes to improve their health.
  • Stage 3: In this stage, the older adult has regular symptoms of heart failure. They will likely have trouble doing daily tasks. This is especially true if they have other health conditions.
  • Stage 4: Symptoms in this stage are severe and disabling. Symptoms may even occur when the older adult is at rest. Seniors in this stage will require a great deal of medical treatment and may also need surgery.

Home care can assist older adults who have been diagnosed with heart failure to live a healthier lifestyle, which may help them to live longer. Home care providers can cook meals that promote heart health and ensure the senior is getting enough nutrients. Home care providers can also remind older adults to take medications for their condition, which helps to better manage heart failure. Also, home care providers can offer transportation to medical appointments.

Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321538.php
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17069-heart-failure-understanding-heart-failure/management-and-treatment
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142

If you or an aging loved one are consideringsenior care in St. Louis Park, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.