June 18, 2012
Emotional support important for heart patients
A study has examined
the possible link between living alone and the risk of heart attack
and stroke.
Researchers found that, amongst
middle aged people already suffering from heart
disease, those who live alone had an increased risk of further life
threatening events.
Having someone there to help you understand your condition and make any lifestyle changes can be a real help
Cathy Ross, our Senior
Cardiac Nurse, said: “More research is needed to see why
living alone should be linked to heart health. One possibility is
that heart patients may be more reluctant to report their symptoms
if they do not have a
close friend or family
member to talk to.
“This study highlights the
importance of good cardiac
rehabilitation. Emotional support is an integral part
of recovery and living with heart disease. Having someone
there to help you understand your condition and make any lifestyle
changes can be a real help.
“But living alone doesn’t mean you
need to cope alone. The BHF has nearly 300 affiliated
heart support groups across England and
Wales, which provide a friendly and supportive
environment for heart patients.”
For information on heart support
groups call our Heart helpline on 0300
330 3311.
This study was published in the Archives of
Internal Medicine.