Pacemaker Surgery Recovery: Elderly Recuperation

Author

GRISWOLD HOME CARE MN

Posted on

Jan 26, 2023

Book/Edition

Minnesota - Twin Cities Metro Area

share-this
Share This

After experiencing heart troubles, a patient may be advised to undergo pacemaker implantation. But what does that entail? In this post, we will provide answers to the following questions:

  • Why should a patient get a pacemaker?

  • Is a pacemaker a major surgery?

  • Is pacemaker surgery invasive?

  • Are there pacemaker risks for the elderly?

  • How do you go about replacing a pacemaker battery in the elderly?

  • How do older adults recover from pacemaker surgery?

Why Should One Get a Pacemaker?

Doctors may recommend a temporary pacemaker to patients with a slow heartbeat after a heart attack, surgery, or overdose. This is done when the patient’s heartbeat is otherwise expected to recover. Afterward, a surgeon may implant a pacemaker permanently to correct a chronic irregular heartbeat or to help treat heart failure.

Is Getting a Pacemaker a Major Surgery?

No. Pacemaker surgery is a minor surgery that can take around 1-2 hours. Most patients go home within 24 hours after the procedure.

How Invasive Is Pacemaker Surgery?

The surgeon implants the pacemaker under the skin of the chest with no need for open-heart surgery. The patient will be put under local anesthesia but may receive some medications to keep them comfortable or help them fall asleep.

Is There a Risk of Pacemaker Surgery in Elderly Adults?

Pacemaker problems for the elderly are uncommon, but the Mayo Clinic notes that pacemaker replacement surgery risks include:

  • Infections near the heart, where the device was implanted

  • Blood clots near the pacemaker site

  • Blood in the area between the lung and chest wall

  • Blood vessel or nerve damage near the pacemaker

  • Bruising, swelling, or bleeding at the pacemaker site

  • Collapsed lung

  • Shifting of the device or leads, which could rarely lead to cardiac perforation

Furthermore, patients should call their doctor if they experience any of the following side effects after surgery:

  • Abnormal heart rhythm

  • Breathlessness

  • Chest pain

  • Dizziness

  • Fainting

  • Fever for longer than 2-3 days

  • Heart rate dropping below the pacemaker’s lowest setting

  • Hiccups for long periods of time

  • Redness, swelling, or pain at the site of the pacemaker

  • Swollen arm on the side, where the surgery took place

  • Weakness for prolonged periods of time

How Do You Go About Changing Pacemaker Battery in Elderly?

A pacemaker should last 5-15 years before replacing the battery. Pacemaker battery replacement in the elderly is usually less invasive. Furthermore, pacemaker battery replacement recovery is usually less than the initial implant procedure.

What Is Pacemaker Surgery Recovery in Elderly Like?

Some patients recover a few days after pacemaker implantation while others take months to recover. Patients are usually advised to take 3-7 days off of work after the procedure. However, a cardiologist may recommend taking more time off if they’re concerned about the patient’s overall health. Patients will also need to get a checkup 4-6 weeks after the procedure to see if small adjustments need to be made. Additional checkups will also need to be completed every 3-12 months.

As for lifestyle changes, patients will not be allowed to drive for at least six weeks or reach up on the side they had the procedure on for about 4-6 weeks. Additionally, cardiologists recommend avoiding sports for 4-6 weeks after pacemaker surgery. Overall though, most patients are back to resuming normal activities within four weeks.

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today online or call us at (763) 325-1950.

Other Articles You May Like

Caring for Aging Parents: Let FirstLight Lighten Your Load

Caring for Aging Parents: Let FirstLight Lighten Your LoadWatching your parents age and begin to need help can be one of lifes most emotional and challenging transitions. As they require assistance with everyday tasksfrom getting dressed to grocery shoppingit can feel overwhelming to shoulder these responsibilities on your own. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to support you and your loved ones with compassionate care that makes a difference.The Challenges of Caring for Aging ParentsBeing a primary caregiver for your aging parents can be as rewarding as it is exhausting. Between managing your own responsibilitieswork, family, and personal needsit may feel like there arent enough hours in the day. Many caregivers find themselves stretched thin, sacrificing sleep, hobbies, and social connections to meet the needs of their parents.This cycle often leads to burnout. The constant physical, mental, and emotional demands can leave you drained, making it harder to provide the care your loved ones deserve. Its common to feel like youve lost your sense of self, but remember: you dont have to do it all alone.Supporting Your Aging ParentsThe level of care your parents need depends on their situation. Some may only require occasional check-ins, while others may need help with daily routines like showering, preparing meals, or managing medications.As health challenges grow, these responsibilities can feel like a full-time job. Its a heavy load for one person to carry, especially when trying to balance everything else in life. Thats where FirstLight Home Care steps in to help.How Companion Care Makes a DifferenceAt FirstLight, we offer a range of senior care services, including companion care, dementia care, respite care, and more. Our caregivers are carefully matched to each familys unique needs, bringing much-needed relief to those caring for aging parents.Companionship and Emotional SupportLoneliness is common among seniors, but our compassionate caregivers bring connection and joy to their daily lives. Whether its sharing stories, assisting with communication, or helping them stay socially active, our team is here to keep your parents engaged and happy.Daily Living AssistanceFrom light housekeeping to meal preparation, our caregivers ensure your loved ones home remains a clean, safe, and healthy space. They can also help with hygiene, toileting, and mobility, all while treating your parents with the dignity and respect they deserve.Relieving Family Caregiver StressHaving professional support means youll have more time and energy for yourselfand for your parents. Instead of being overwhelmed by caregiving duties, you can focus on strengthening your relationship with them and creating meaningful memories.Let Us Support Your FamilyCaring for aging parents is no small task, but you dont have to do it alone. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to share the load and provide expert care that brings peace of mind to you and your family.Whether your parents need help with daily activities, companionship, or more specialized care, our trained caregivers are ready to step in and provide the support they deserve.Reach out to FirstLight Home Care today to explore personalized care options near you.Ready to learn more?Discover how FirstLight can make life easier for you and your loved ones. Contact us for personalized pricing or visit your nearest location to begin. Together, we can help your parents live their best lifewhile giving you the space to thrive, too.  Call FirstLight Home Care in Bloomington at 612-473-3227.

Six Simple Strategies to Help Seniors Sleep Better

Six Simple Strategies to Help Seniors Sleep BetterHow did you sleep last night? With National Sleep Awareness Week taking place from March 10th to 16th, its the perfect time to think about your bedtime habits and explore ways to improve your sleep quality.A restful nights sleep is like a reset button for your body and mind, and its especially important for seniors. Good sleep can boost your mood, sharpen your mind, and strengthen your immune system. However, as we age, getting those precious Zs can become more challenging. Changes in sleep patterns, along with environmental and emotional factors, often lead to restless nights.If counting sheep has become your nightly ritual, dont worryyoure not alone, and help is here. The Seniors Helping Seniors team has six simple, practical tips to help you sleep better and wake up refreshed. Lets dive in!1. Stick to a Relaxing Bedtime RoutineYour body loves routines, especially when it comes to winding down for the night. Create a calming bedtime ritual that works for youlike reading a book, doing some light stretches, or meditating. These activities signal to your body that its time to relax. Not sure where to start? Your Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can help you incorporate these soothing habits into your evening routine.2. Power Down Your ScreensScrolling through your phone or catching up on emails before bed might seem harmless, but the blue light from screens can disrupt your natural sleep hormones. Try putting your devices away at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, swap that screen time for a calming activity like listening to music or journaling.3. Create a Cozy Sleep SanctuaryA good mattress and supportive pillows can make all the difference in how you feel the next morning. Look for bedding that keeps you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Your bedroom should also be dark, quiet, and coolthink of it as your personal sleep haven.4. Limit Afternoon NapsA quick nap can recharge your energy, but long or late-day naps might mess with your nighttime sleep. Keep naps short20 to 30 minutesand try to rest earlier in the day. This way, you can still enjoy a power nap without affecting your bedtime.5. Get Moving During the DayPhysical activity isnt just great for your overall healthit also helps you sleep better. Even 30 minutes of light exercise like walking or yoga can work wonders. Just remember to keep workouts earlier in the day, as late-night exercise might leave you too energized to fall asleep.6. Mind Your Evening MenuWhat you eat and drink before bed can influence your sleep. Heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime can leave you tossing and turning. Instead, try something soothing, like a cup of herbal tea or warm milk, to help you unwind. Need help with meal planning? Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers are happy to lend a hand.Bonus Tip: Keep Your Wake-Up Time ConsistentYour body thrives on routine, so try waking up at the same time every dayeven on weekends. A consistent wake-up time helps regulate your internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.If youve tried these tips and are still struggling with sleep, it might be time to seek professional advice. A healthcare provider or sleep specialist can help identify underlying issues, like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, and recommend tailored solutions.Sleep is vital for your health and well-being, and you deserve to wake up every day feeling your best. Your Seniors Helping Seniors team is here to support you in creating healthy sleep habits that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Sweet dreams!

Take Control of Your Finances: 7 Budgeting Tips for Seniors

Managing your finances can feel daunting, especially as lifes expenses add up. But with the right strategies, you can take control, stretch your dollars, and enjoy peace of mind. Here at Seniors Helping Seniors, we believe financial independence is empowering, and were here to help! From grocery savings to solar panels, these practical tips will guide you toward a brighter, more secure future.1. Shop Smart and Save at the Grocery StoreMany grocery stores offer senior discountsan easy way to save on everyday essentials. Pairing these discounts with meal planning can help stretch your weekly budget. Need a hand? A Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can assist with planning nutritious meals while keeping costs down.2. Tap Into Free or Low-Cost Community ResourcesYour community likely offers a variety of free or low-cost services designed for seniors. Think meal delivery programs, recreational activities, or transportation services. Staying active and connected doesnt have to break the bank, and these resources can add tremendous value to your lifestyle without adding to your expenses.3. Take Advantage of Senior DiscountsFrom restaurants to retail stores, discounts for seniors are everywhere! Many establishments offer lower prices or special deals for older adults. Whether its a favorite coffee spot or a hardware store, these small savings add up, making it easier to enjoy your favorite things while staying within your budget.4. Use a Budgeting App to Track Your SpendingSimplify money management with a budgeting app. These tools make it easy to monitor your spending on groceries, utilities, entertainment, and more. If technology feels overwhelming, your caregiver can guide you through setup and show you how to track your finances effectively. Its a small step that leads to big financial clarity.5. Automate Savings and Bill PaymentsAvoid late fees and grow your savings by automating your finances. Set up automatic transfers to your savings account or schedule recurring bill payments through your bank. This hassle-free approach helps ensure your bills are always paid on time, leaving you more time to focus on what matters most.6. Work With a Caregiver for Personalized SupportA Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can be your budgeting buddy. From spotting local discounts to helping you navigate government programs, your caregiver can provide personalized assistance. Together, you can create a financial plan that fits your needs, so you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying life.7. Save on Energy with Solar PanelsIf youre ready to invest in long-term savings, consider solar panels. They harness renewable energy, reducing your electricity bills and your carbon footprint. With available tax credits and rebates, going solar might be more affordable than you think. Plus, its a great way to contribute to a greener planet.A Brighter Financial Future AwaitsYour golden years should be filled with joy, not financial stress. These tips are designed to help you budget smarter and save more, empowering you to live life fully and confidently. If youre feeling overwhelmed, our Seniors Helping Seniors team is here to help. With expert guidance and a caring approach, well work alongside you to create a plan that fits your life.Lets tackle those finances togetheryouve got this!Seniors Helping Seniors Making Life Easier, One Step at a TimeFor more tips and support, visit our website or contact your local Seniors Helping Seniors office.

Local Services By This Author

Griswold Home Care

Personal Care Assistance 224 East Main Street, Ste 201, Anoka, Minnesota, 55303

HOME CARE SERVICES IN ANOKA . . . . . If youve been taking care of a loved one, helping them live their best lives as independently as possible, you are a hero. Youve been incredible, and you deserve assistance. At Griswold Home Care of Anoka County, we know better than most how much love and care goes into this type of responsibility. And we understand how difficult it can be to trust someone else with your family members, which is why we take such great measures to practice a holistic caregiving approach.Our nonmedical services are flexible to meet your needs because no two care plans are the same for every individual. But to provide an idea of how you can personalize your plan, some of the common types of care we provide include:Personal  This can involve anything from general hygiene (bathing, grooming, and restroom assistance) to supporting physical therapy and nail treatments.Homemaking  Whether youre looking for pet or plant care, light housekeeping, grocery shopping or meal prepping, our homemaking services cover it.Companionship  No one should feel isolated or alone, and our companionship services make sure your loved one is no exception. We can do crafts or hobbies together, shopping, celebrate events, or help get your loved one to a friends home for a visit.Respite  This is a short-term option, meant to give the family caregiver a rest from the physical and emotional demands, because sometimes all we need is a brief respite to recharge.Give our friendly team a call today at (763) 325-1950 to learn more about our home care services in Anoka.

Griswold Home Care

Respite Care 224 East Main Street, Ste 201, Anoka, Minnesota, 55303

HOME CARE SERVICES IN ANOKA . . . . . If youve been taking care of a loved one, helping them live their best lives as independently as possible, you are a hero. Youve been incredible, and you deserve assistance. At Griswold Home Care of Anoka County, we know better than most how much love and care goes into this type of responsibility. And we understand how difficult it can be to trust someone else with your family members, which is why we take such great measures to practice a holistic caregiving approach.Our nonmedical services are flexible to meet your needs because no two care plans are the same for every individual. But to provide an idea of how you can personalize your plan, some of the common types of care we provide include:Personal  This can involve anything from general hygiene (bathing, grooming, and restroom assistance) to supporting physical therapy and nail treatments.Homemaking  Whether youre looking for pet or plant care, light housekeeping, grocery shopping or meal prepping, our homemaking services cover it.Companionship  No one should feel isolated or alone, and our companionship services make sure your loved one is no exception. We can do crafts or hobbies together, shopping, celebrate events, or help get your loved one to a friends home for a visit.Respite  This is a short-term option, meant to give the family caregiver a rest from the physical and emotional demands, because sometimes all we need is a brief respite to recharge.Give our friendly team a call today at (763) 325-1950 to learn more about our home care services in Anoka.

Griswold Home Care

Companion Care 224 E Main Street, Ste 201, Anoka, Minnesota, 55303

HOME CARE SERVICES IN ANOKA . . . . . If youve been taking care of a loved one, helping them live their best lives as independently as possible, you are a hero. Youve been incredible, and you deserve assistance. At Griswold Home Care of Anoka County, we know better than most how much love and care goes into this type of responsibility. And we understand how difficult it can be to trust someone else with your family members, which is why we take such great measures to practice a holistic caregiving approach.Our nonmedical services are flexible to meet your needs because no two care plans are the same for every individual. But to provide an idea of how you can personalize your plan, some of the common types of care we provide include:Personal  This can involve anything from general hygiene (bathing, grooming, and restroom assistance) to supporting physical therapy and nail treatments.Homemaking  Whether youre looking for pet or plant care, light housekeeping, grocery shopping or meal prepping, our homemaking services cover it.Companionship  No one should feel isolated or alone, and our companionship services make sure your loved one is no exception. We can do crafts or hobbies together, shopping, celebrate events, or help get your loved one to a friends home for a visit.Respite  This is a short-term option, meant to give the family caregiver a rest from the physical and emotional demands, because sometimes all we need is a brief respite to recharge.Give our friendly team a call today at (763) 325-1950 to learn more about our home care services in Anoka.