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Being a caregiver: supporting someone with a heart condition

Caring for someone with a heart condition or after a heart event can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. It’s a role that requires patience, compassion, and a commitment to supporting the physical and emotional wellbeing of your loved one, family member, or friend. 

Whether they’ve been recently diagnosed or are managing a long-term condition, here are some essential tips to guide you on this journey.

Note that not all people diagnosed with a heart condition will require a carer, and some may want to maintain as much self-independence as possible, but if they do, this guide can help greatly to manage their situation.

Providing emotional support

A heart disease diagnosis can be overwhelming, triggering emotions such as fear, confusion, anger and denial. As a caregiver, you play a critical role in providing reassurance and helping them navigate these feelings. Here’s how:

  • Listen: Make time to genuinely listen to their concerns and feelings. Open, empathetic conversations can provide much-needed relief and understanding.
  • Encourage connection: Help them connect with others facing similar heart health challenges. Support groups provide a valuable opportunity to talk about their heart condition and share tips and coping strategies with others. See our Heart Support Groups page for groups in your area. 
  • Seek inspiration: Suggest reading personal stories from those living with heart conditions, which can be incredibly uplifting. See our Journeys page for personal stories. 
  • Advocate for them: Offer to accompany them to medical appointments and assist with navigating healthcare services.
  • Create a plan: Work together to establish a plan for managing the condition, including lifestyle changes. Having a structured approach can provide a sense of control and reassurance.
  • Acknowledge their efforts: Managing a heart condition isn’t easy. Recognise their achievements and encourage them to stay on track with their health goals.

Managing depression and anxiety

It’s common for those with heart conditions to experience anxiety or depression. While ups and downs are normal, prolonged low mood or worry should not be ignored. Encourage them to:

  • speak with their GP if these feelings persist for more than a couple of weeks
  • access support by calling or texting 1737 to connect with a trained counsellor for free 24/7
  • explore resources from the Mental Health Foundation

As a caregiver, keep an eye on their emotional wellbeing and don’t hesitate to seek help on their behalf if needed.

Know when to call for help

Ask your doctor and nurse about what to expect as 'normal' and any warning signs to watch out for. Depending on your loved one's condition, there may be different warning signs. Many symptoms may be able to be managed at home, but it's really important to know when you need to call for help.

Your loved one may be given a personalised 'action plan' to explain how to manage symptoms and when you need to call for help.

Explore our standard action plans for angina, heart attack and heart failure

Practical support around the home

Heart conditions can make daily tasks challenging. Providing practical assistance can greatly improve the quality of life for someone with heart disease. Here are some ways you can help:

  • Personal care: Check if they need help with basic tasks like bathing, dressing or moving around the house. Simple changes like adding a shower chair or recliner chair can make a big difference.
  • Managing the household: Ensure bills and finances are being managed. If they’re struggling, investigate government support options or arrange for external assistance.
  • Daily chores: Offer help with cooking, cleaning or grocery shopping. If you’re unable to offer these yourself, explore local support services.
  • Needs assessment: Speak with their GP or cardiac nurse to arrange a needs assessment for government-funded home help if daily activities are becoming too difficult. Or you can self-refer here.

Taking care of yourself

Being a caregiver is demanding, and it’s essential to look after your own health and wellbeing. Prioritising self-care enables you to provide the best possible support. Here are some ways to maintain your own wellbeing:

  • Exercise and rest: Incorporate regular physical activity, ensure you’re getting enough sleep, and eat a balanced diet.
  • Take time for yourself: Make time each day for activities you enjoy, such as reading, walking or catching up with friends.
  • Seek emotional support: Share your experiences with friends, join a carer’s support group, or speak with your GP. Talking about your feelings can ease the emotional burden of caregiving.
  • Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to family members, friends or professional services for assistance. Caregiving is a team effort, and sharing responsibilities ensures the best care for your loved one, family member, or friend.
     

Finding balance

Caring for someone with a heart condition is a significant responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on emotional support, practical assistance and your own wellbeing, you can create a positive and sustainable caregiving environment. Remember, you’re not alone – resources and support networks are available to help you on this journey.

For more information and resources, visit the Heart Foundation website. Together, we can ensure that every heartbeat is supported with care and compassion.