The Risk of Post Heart Attack Depression

Did you know that patients who have had a heart attack are more likely to develop depression?  Approximately one in five patients who have had a heart attack suffer from depression afterwards according to Johns Hopkins.

The risk for depression increases after a heart attack for several reasons including:

• A heart attack is a major life stressor.  Major life stressors can lead to depression. 

•  A heart attack can cause psychological trauma, a common cause of depression.

•  Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness about the future often follow a heart attack.  

•  Dealing with the feelings of guilt about past lifestyle choices which may have contributed to the heart attack can be overwhelming.

•  Embarrassment about needing help due to the physical complications related to the heart attack is challenging.

•  Some cardiac medications may increase the risk of depression.

The nursing staff at an adult day care can educate caregivers about the increased risk of depression after a heart attack.  They can also evaluate the senior for depression on a daily basis while at the facility.  Adult day care can change the life of a senior and their caregiver.  If your senior loved one has suffered a heart attack and needs supervision during the day, we welcome the opportunity to give you a tour of Bon Vivant Adult Day Club.  We are the premier adult day care provider located in Fenton, MO. 

Our mission at Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is to ensure our members enjoy Good Living Longer.    We are licensed by the State of Missouri and welcome the opportunity to meet with you and your loved one to answer any questions you have about adult day care.  Please feel free to visit our website at www.goodlivinglonger.com or call us at 636-343-1600. 

Article by Beverly McKee