Support and Guidance for You
Caregiving, like healing, is a journey. And it’s one that nobody should take alone. As you help a loved one cope with a heart, lung or vascular condition, you need support too. We’re here to offer you guidance as you meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of your loved one — while still taking care of yourself.
We know that between your loved one’s doctor appointments and medication management, caring for pets and preparing meals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a caregiver. We’re here to help you face the future with hope and optimism, with the personalized care you deserve. Let our team connect you with support groups, community organizations and other resources to help you thrive in body, mind and spirit.
Take Heart; We’re in This Together
We offer comprehensive support services to help you and your loved one navigate the road to good health. Whole-person care is within reach.
Tips for Caregivers
Family caregivers need as much support as their loved ones. It’s important to remember that self-care, in all its forms, is the key in being an effective caregiver.
- What to Expect
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Driver. Friend. Errand runner. Personal chef. As a caregiver, you wear a lot of hats. Here are some things you might expect in your role:
- Scheduling and driving to and from doctor appointments
- Advocating for your loved one by communicating with our medical team and the insurance company
- Helping a loved one adhere to a medication schedule
- Helping a loved one follow a dietitian's orders through grocery shopping and meal preparation
- Providing assistance with everyday tasks they may not physically be able to perform themselves, like bathing, using the restroom and getting dressed
- Acting as a point of contact for friends and family
- Managing finances
- Helping them care for their post-surgical needs
- Holding them accountable for taking care of their heart health
- Take Care of Yourself
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First and foremost, you need to keep yourself healthy. All too often, caregivers forgo self-care, leading to physical, emotional and spiritual exhaustion. Be kind to yourself during this challenging time and do things that bring you joy.
Tips for self-care include:
- Continuing to take part in your hobbies
- Eating healthy, balanced meals
- Exercising regularly
- Taking time for yourself each day
- Ask for Help
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Lean on the support of your family, friends and your loved one’s health care team. Whether you need help with something small, like walking the dog, or you feel it’s time to bring in a home health aid or social worker, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Keep these tips in mind to help you stay centered:
- Ask for help when you need it and accept help when it's offered
- Be realistic about what you can and can't do
- Ask your employer about paid leave
- Look for caregiver resources in your area, whether it's meal delivery or transportation assistance
- Stay on top of your own health
- Attend routine doctor appointments
- Eat healthfully
- Exercise regularly
- Connect With the Community
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For your mental and emotional health, it’s beneficial to stay connected to your community. Draw on local support services to help guide you through your journey as a caregiver.
The following organizations may have local chapters right in your area:
Programs and Services to Encourage Community
Having all the important tools and access to programs at your fingertips can help you create an even more supportive environment for your loved one. These programs and groups can encourage community participation and provide them with support, information and hope.
Mended Hearts
This national, community-based non-profit offers a space for peer-to-peer support for families, patients and caregivers. From hospital visits to advocacy, Mended Hearts has a variety of programs designed to improve your quality of life. We work with Mended Hearts in Daytona Beach, Orlando and Tampa Bay to help people connect with and support each other.
Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab
Our cardiac and pulmonary rehab programs are designed to maximize your health by providing education, lifestyle management and exercise plans to help you achieve balance. Work with a caring team of certified specialists who employ a whole-person approach to rehabilitation.
Heart Success Center
Available in select locations nationwide, our Heart Success Centers help keep heart failure patients healthy longer. A team of nurses, dietitians, social workers and others provides effective, evidence-based care to help patients safely transition from the hospital back into the community.
A Trusted Leader in Whole-Person Care
You can count on us for the people, places and the passion to keep you and your loved ones healthy. At every bend in the road, we’re here to guide you toward whole-person health.