AFib Help for Seniors and Families
AFib becomes more common with age, and many families help a parent manage it. Here is what seniors and caregivers should know, and how to get care from FCCI at 904.493.3333.
Signs to watch for at home
- A pulse that feels irregular or very fast
- An irregular heartbeat warning on the home blood pressure machine
- New shortness of breath or tiredness
- Swelling in the legs or trouble breathing when lying down, which can be signs of heart failure
Write down what you notice and when. That log is very helpful for the doctor.
Emergency? Caregivers, if your loved one has chest pain, faints, struggles to breathe, or shows stroke signs (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech), call 911 first, then the doctor.
Share the warning signs with everyone in the home, including grandkids who visit often.
A simple notebook by the blood pressure cuff works well for this.
Bring the notebook to every heart visit.
Blood thinner safety tips
Many people with AFib take a blood thinner to lower the chance of a clot. Caregivers can help by:
- Keeping an up-to-date medication list in a wallet or on the fridge
- Using a pill organizer and setting reminders
- Telling every doctor and dentist about the blood thinner
- Asking the doctor or pharmacist before adding new medicines or supplements
- Never stopping or changing the dose without the doctor's OK
Bring every pill bottle to the first visit if keeping a list is hard. The team can help sort it out.
Ask the doctor or pharmacist about anything that seems confusing.
A weekly pill box is one of the simplest tools that works, and many pharmacies sell them.
Medicare and making it easy
FCCI accepts Medicare, AARP Medicare Complete, Railroad Medicare, Tricare for Life and many other plans. Call 904.493.3333 to check yours.
When you call to book, a caregiver can help with scheduling. At the visit, a second set of ears helps. Bring medicines, home readings and questions. The FCCI team takes time to explain the condition and the plan in plain language.
Large-print medicine lists and a folder with insurance cards, doctor names and recent test results make visits smoother for everyone.
If hearing or vision makes calls or forms hard, let the team know. A family member can join by phone or in person to help.
Ask about anything you do not understand.
Talk with a specialist.
New patients are welcome. Call 904.493.3333, Mon to Fri, 8am to 5pm, or request a visit online.
Is AFib common in older adults?
AFib is the most common heart rhythm problem. Ask your doctor about your own risk.
Does Medicare cover AFib care at FCCI?
FCCI accepts Medicare. Call 904.493.3333 to confirm your specific coverage.
Can a family member come to the visit?
Bringing someone you trust is a great idea. Call the office with any questions.
Keep exploring.
ConditionWhat AFib Is and How It's Treated
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common rhythm problem of the heart. It is treatable, and in certain patients a procedure called ablation can potentially cure it.
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SymptomsHeart Palpitations and Irregular Beats
Palpitations are a racing, pounding, fluttering or skipping heartbeat. Many are harmless, but an irregular pulse can be a sign of AFib or another rhythm problem, so it is worth getting checked.
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TreatmentCatheter Ablation for AFib
Ablation is a procedure that can potentially cure AFib in certain patients. Thin catheters are guided from the groin into the heart to treat the small areas that trigger the irregular rhythm.
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