Palliative Care: Helping People Navigate the Course of Illness

What Are the Four Stages of Congestive Heart Failure? A diagnosis of congestive heart failure can feel overwhelming. If you or a loved one has recently received this diagnosis, you may have many questions. Learning more about congestive heart failure can help you understand what to expect. It can be especially helpful to understand what the four stages of congestive heart failure are, along with your options for care. Understanding Congestive Heart Failure: An Overview Congestive heart failure, also called simply heart failure or CHF, is a chronic health condition caused by weakened heart muscle. If healthy, your heart squeezes with enough force during each heartbeat to pump enough blood for your body to function normally. In congestive heart failure, blood is not pushed out of the heart with enough force, causing other health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 6 million adults in the United States have congestive heart failure. People who are smokers, have obesity, coronary artery disease (CAD), valvular heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure are all at increased risk for CHF. Congestive heart failure can cause many symptoms that lead to poor quality of life. These symptoms include:  Shortness of breath Swelling of body tissues due to fluid buildup Chronic coughing and/or wheezing Decreased appetite and nausea Fatigue Elevated heart rate Confusion and problems with thinking Sudden weight changes  The Four Stages of Congestive Heart Failure ExplainedCongestive heart failure is a progressive disease, meaning it does not go away or reverse course and gradually worsens over time. The American Heart Association has defined four stages of congestive heart failure, beginning with pre-heart heart failure or stage A, through the final or end-stage of heart failure. Stage A: Pre-Heart Failure People diagnosed with Stage A heart failure dont have a problem with their hearts structure but are at risk for developing the later stages of heart failure. Treatment at this stage is focused on preventing new problems. Patients are educated on healthy lifestyle choices that can help prevent coronary artery disease and sometimes may be prescribed medications that reduce their risk for developing heart problems. Stage B: Asymptomatic Heart Failure In Stage B heart failure, the heart has begun to show signs of structural changes. For example, this can be an enlarged left ventricle (a section of the heart), along with a decreased ejection fraction (EF), which measures how much blood the heart pumps. In Stage B there are not any symptoms of heart failure (and there have not been in the past). Treatment at this stage includes preventing symptoms from beginning and treating with medications called beta blockers and ace inhibitors (or angiotensin-receptor blockers) as appropriate to reduce the rate of heart structure changes, as well as lifestyle changes that will prevent worsening of further structural changes in the heart. Treatment may also include surgery, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or valve replacement if it is determined that a blocked coronary artery or defective heart valve is the cause of structural changes in the heart. Stage C: Symptomatic Heart Failure Stage C heart failure results in symptoms of heart failure, either in the past or currently. Treatment at this stage includes reducing or controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. It can also work to control any other health conditions that can worsen heart failure. Medications that reduce extra fluid in the body and other complications of heart failure may be added. In some cases, implanted devices such as a pacemaker or cardioverter defibrillator, may be used to support the heart. Stage D: End-Stage Heart Failure During Stage D, or end-stage heart failure, symptoms are uncomfortable and always present, even during rest. Treatment in this stage includes improving quality of life, reducing symptoms, reducing trips to the hospital and making end-of-life goals and plans. For some, a heart transplant may be an option. Early-Stage Heart Failure: Knowing Your Options For those living with Stage C heart failure, day-to-day care can sometimes feel challenging. Hospitalizations may be a worry, and managing stability and quality of life at home requires lifestyle changes, medications and a good plan of care. Home health support for heart failure can help you learn how to monitor symptoms and manage your condition at home, avoiding hospital stays. Home health care can provide: Education about medications and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk factors and help promote clinical stability. Proper diet and nutrition information Techniques for improvements in strength and mobility Daily exercise routines Help to monitor vital signs Monitoring heart failure symptoms Weight monitoring and management Tips on what to do if symptoms worsen  These supports and resources can help improve your quality of life and reduce symptoms during Stage C heart failure. End-Stage Heart Failure: Knowing Your Options Because heart failure is not reversible, end-stage heart failure can escalate the need for decisions about care and end of life if you havent already had these conversations with your loved ones and care team. People living with end-stage heart failure often have symptoms and problems that can lead to hospitalizations and emergencies.Understanding the four stages of heart failure and discussing your long-term goals and wishes in the early stages can help you avoid unwanted and potentially unnecessary treatments. Palliative Care and Heart Failure Palliative care is a helpful option for those living with heart failure. The focus of palliative care is on quality of life, symptom management and setting goals for care so that your wishes are honored, and your treatment matches what you desire.Palliative care can be started at any stage of a diagnosis. As you progress into the later stages of heart failure, you may meet more often with your palliative care team to discuss symptom management and to plan for possible changes to your health and care. The palliative care team can also help you decide when to begin hospice care during Stage D heart failure. Hospice Care: Compassion During the Final Stage During hospice care, people living with heart failure transition from aggressive forms of treatment to comfort-centered, end-of-life care. An interdisciplinary hospice care team helps patients and their families to manage heart failure at home as best as possible. Specialized hospice care for heart failure can further support those in end-stage heart failure, with evidence-based guidelines and best practices to keep patients as comfortable as possible where they most want to be. During end-stage heart failure, hospice care provides: Pain and symptom management Caregiver support Emotional and spiritual support End-of-life planning (also called advance care planning) Bereavement support 24/7 nurse availability for emergencies Psychosocial support Assistance with activities of daily living Respite care  Managing the Four Stages of Congestive Heart Failure with Amedisys  If youre not sure where to begin with heart failure care at home, an Amedisys care center near you can help. Whether you enroll in our home health heart failure program, meet with a palliative care team or are considering hospice, contact Amedisys Hospice at 251-343-0989 for more information

How We Help Veterans Age with Dignity and RespectTransitioning from military to civilian life can be a complex journey for veterans, filled with various challenges. Many face difficulties such as adapting to new social environments, managing mental health issues, and navigating healthcare systems. Understanding these needs is crucial for providing the right support, and that's where Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder steps in. Our team is dedicated to serving those who have bravely served our country.Veterans often experience unique struggles, including health concerns and emotional challenges stemming from their service. Whether it's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), physical injuries, or difficulty adjusting to civilian life, these veterans require understanding and compassion. We believe that dignity and respect are fundamental in veteran care. Our team is committed to fostering an environment where veterans feel valued and supported as they navigate this new chapter of their lives.Our Veteran Care ServicesTo meet the diverse needs of veterans, Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder provides a range of specialized home care services. From personal assistance with daily activities to medication administration and more, our veteran care services are designed to address both physical and mental health needs. Understanding that each veteran's experience is different, our caregivers work closely with clients to ensure they receive tailored support that promotes their overall well-being.We recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach doesnt work for veterans. Thats why we develop personalized care plans that cater to the individual needs of each veteran we assist. Our caregivers take the time to understand their clients' specific circumstances and preferences, creating customized solutions that can include anything from assistance with household tasks to companionship during social outings.Support for Families of VeteransThe transition to civilian life affects not only veterans but their families as well. We provide essential support to veterans' families during this challenging period. We offer resources and guidance to help family members understand the challenges their loved one's face and how best to support them. Our network includes connections to various support groups, counseling services, and educational resources that can help families navigate this journey together.Why Choose Us?When it comes to choosing care services, veterans have options, but Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder stands out with our commitment to quality and compassion. Our professional caregivers are trained to provide not just physical care but also emotional support, creating a holistic approach to wellness. We encourage families to contact us online or call (844) 908-3819 today and schedule a consultation call with our team.The journey from military to civilian life is filled with challenges, but with the right support and care, veterans can thrive. We're honored to serve those who have served us. Let us partner with you in this journey, providing the compassionate care and support that every veteran deserves.

A Parkinsons diagnosis is a life-changing event it changes daily routines, long-term plans and can often become a job in itself to navigate, but still, it is manageable. According to the Parkinsons Foundation, nearly one million Americans are currently living with the diagnosis, and as many of them can attest, its entirely possible to live full, happy, healthy lives. While there are some extra hoops to jump through when dealing with a Parkinsons diagnosis, family caregivers play an important role, especially when understanding how to care for someone with Parkinsons disease.Below are some key takeaways to guide you in supporting a loved one living with Parkinsons.Offering Emotional SupportBefore you offer hands-on assistance, offer emotional support and use your loved ones feelings to gauge how much theyd like to be helped. Encourage, dont nag. Instill confidence in your loved one by encouraging them to continue their everyday routine post-diagnosis, but dont pester them to do tasks that they feel averse to.  Be observant, but not overbearing. Its okay to watch and see how independent your loved one can be, but dont jump straight in and take control of their daily lives.  Embrace and normalize the diagnosis. Nearly one million other Americans are dealing with similar circumstances. Remind your loved one that they arent alone.  Offering Physical SupportThe level of physical help that you should offer is going to be an evolving fine line. Its vital that you dont let a loved one feel robbed of their independence, but its also important that they receive the physical help they need. Start small with: Involving the person in your daily tasks. Invite them to come visit, go on car rides, come grocery shopping, or even just watch TV.  Gently encouraging everyday exercise. Try to find hobbies that can keep them on their feet without making it feel like a doctors prescription. Try gardening, daily walks or light workouts like swimming or yoga.  Managing a healthy diet. Dont overlook what your loved one is putting into their body. Suggest balanced meals with plenty of calcium to combat fragile bones, fiber to minimize constipation and other necessary nutrients.  As symptoms progress, your assistance will likely evolve to tasks such as: Helping with household chores. It may fall on you to keep the house in order with things like cooking, cleaning or staying on top of laundry. If you notice the house in disarray, act without being asked. Eliminate tripping hazards and move furniture to allow for easy access.  Helping with grooming and dressing. Your loved one will likely need help with things like getting in and out of bed, getting in and out of the shower, and putting on certain pieces of clothing. To minimize how much help youll need to offer, consider clothes with Velcro or elastic waistbands, buy shower stools, and keep in mind that stand-in showers are much easier to navigate.  Offering Mental SupportWhile most mental impairments related to Parkinsons dont manifest until later in the diagnosis, the earlier stages still come with plenty of considerations that can leave your loved one feeling burnt out or mentally exhausted. You can help to manage this by:Reminding them of medications. Its difficult to memorize a new routine, especially when it involves specific dosages and administration times. Gently remind or ask if theyre on top of their medication. Offer to create a calendar for administration times on their phone or make a note somewhere in the house, but again, dont be too overbearing.Attending their doctors appointments. Not only will your loved ones appreciate you getting them to the doctor, but theyll also be thankful for the mental load that your presence can alleviate. You can be an extra set of ears to note what the doctor says, and you can relay this information if your loved one forgets later on. Note the progression of their symptoms. If you notice a new symptom for the first time, write it down. This can provide a concrete timeline for you and your loved ones care team to work with.