The signs of needing a pacemaker can be easy to miss at first. You might notice fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or confusion in your loved one. Or hear them commenting, “I just don’t feel right anymore.” If a slow heart rate (bradycardia) is determined to be the culprit, their doctor will look for a reversible cause. If there is none, the doctor may recommend a pacemaker.
What is a pacemaker? A pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device that sends electrical signals to the heart to keep it beating at a steady rate. It is placed under the skin, near the collarbone, in a surgical procedure. Its function can be monitored remotely by the doctor. Within five to fifteen years, a shorter surgery will be needed to replace the device.
Who needs a pacemaker? Pacemakers are most often prescribed to older adults struggling with bradycardia or heart failure. They are also sometimes used in cases of a high or irregular heart rate. For many older adults, a pacemaker can improve energy and quality of life and prevent falls by eliminating the dizziness caused by a slow heart rate.
Still, it helps to know what a pacemaker can and cannot do. It can regulate the heartbeat, but it does not treat frailty. If your loved one has advanced dementia or is diagnosed with a life-threatening condition, a pacemaker may not be appropriate. Though they are low risk in general, they may prolong life when that result is not desired. They should be considered within the greater context of overall health and quality of life. A pacemaker decision may prompt a larger discussion about care wishes and medical interventions.
Other considerations. Medicare generally covers medically necessary pacemakers, but check your loved one’s plan to see if the same is true for follow-up costs and procedures.
Do you help an aging loved one navigate medical decisions?
It can feel overwhelming—after all, you don’t know what you don’t know! As the Delaware, and Delaware and Chester Counties in PA experts in family caregiving, we at Delaware Palliative are experienced in walking older adults and their families through healthcare decision making. Whether you’re noticing new symptoms, preparing for a doctor’s appointment, or weighing options such as a pacemaker, having guidance and support can make the process easier. Our goal is to help you and your relative make informed choices that prioritize both health and quality of life. Give us a call at 302-478-5707.
