Arrhythmia is a condition that occurs when the heart doesn’t beat in an organized and controlled pattern. It occurs when the electrical system that controls how the heart beats doesn’t work right and sends irregular signals. In some cases, the arrhythmia is just a nuisance, but it can also be dangerous, even leading to death. Knowing the risk factors associated with arrhythmia can help you to determine whether your older family member is at risk.

Risk Factors for Arrhythmia

There are several things that can increase the chances of seniors developing arrhythmia. Some of them are:

Getting Older: Just by getting older, your aging relative is at greater risk for heart arrhythmia. Though experts aren’t sure exactly why age makes the problem more likely, it may have something to do with scarring that can occur in the heart with age.

Heart Problems: Heart conditions that cause damage to the heart muscle and other parts of the heart can lead to arrhythmia. Some conditions that can play a role are a heart attack, narrowed arteries, heart valve problems, and having had heart surgery.

Diabetes: People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, both of which can lead to arrhythmia.

Thyroid Issues: Having low or high levels of thyroid hormones can increase the risk.

Caffeine or Nicotine: Both caffeine and nicotine are stimulants that can cause the heart to beat too fast or cause other kinds of arrhythmias.

Alcohol: Excessive consumption of alcohol can affect the electrical signals that control the heart.

Arrhythmia Symptoms

Sometimes arrhythmia doesn’t cause any symptoms that the older adult notices themselves. Instead, it’s discovered when a doctor is examining the senior for something else. Other times, they might have some of these symptoms:

• A fluttery feeling.
• A feeling like the heart is racing.
• Slowed heartbeat.
• Pain in the chest.
• Dizziness.
• Sweating.
• Fainting.

If your aging relative notices symptoms of arrhythmia, it’s important that they talk to a doctor. If the symptoms are severe or happen when they are not expected, call 911 for emergency medical care.

Home care can assist seniors to prevent arrhythmia by preparing heart-healthy meals for them. Home care providers can also increase physical activity by encouraging the older adult to participate in activities around the home. Having a home care provider can reduce stress, which can trigger arrhythmia, in your aging relative by giving them someone to help them with household tasks, make sure they don’t forget to take medications and offer emotional support.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable Senior Care in Dacula, GA, and surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

Sources
Mayoclinic.org
Heart.org
Verywellhealth.com

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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