February is recognized nationwide as Heart Health Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and support those living with chronic heart conditions. Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health is using this month to highlight its Home Health team, which provides compassionate, specialized care for patients experiencing heart failure and other advanced cardiac disease.
Heart failure is a common yet unpredictable condition that can significantly affect daily life. Many people living with heart failure experience shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the feet and ankles, and feelings of anxiety or panic. These symptoms can make it difficult to enjoy activities that once brought comfort and joy. Some days may feel manageable, while others bring sudden and severe breathing difficulties, creating uncertainty and emotional stress for both patients and their families.
The Pemi-Baker team works alongside a patient’s physician and cardiology team to provide an extra layer of care focused on education, care navigation, and family support. The goal is to help individuals better understand their condition, manage symptoms more effectively, and maintain the highest possible quality of life.
Clinicians help patients learn practical techniques to improve breathing and comfort throughout the day. This may include guidance on how to sit, stand, or lie down to ease shortness of breath. Patients are also taught simple strategies to reduce anxiety or panic when breathing becomes difficult, such as breathing exercises or using a fan to cool the face. These small but meaningful interventions can make a significant difference in daily comfort and confidence.
In addition to symptom management, the team helps patients and families navigate the healthcare system. Communication between providers can be overwhelming, especially when managing a complex illness. Home Health care ensures that patients, caregivers, and medical providers remain informed and aligned, helping everyone stay on the same page regarding treatment plans and goals of care.
Another key component is helping patients have meaningful conversations with their loved ones about their health, preferences, and priorities. Living with heart failure often involves important decisions, and the team supports families in understanding options and planning for the future in a way that reflects each patient’s individual values. The care team also helps patients identify and work toward personal goals — whether that means staying active, remaining at home, reducing hospital visits, or simply feeling more comfortable day to day.
Support is always within reach. The care team is available and on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer questions, provide guidance, and help patients and families respond to changing symptoms or concerns. This around-the-clock access offers reassurance and peace of mind, especially during moments when symptoms feel frightening or uncertain.
“Heart failure can be physically and emotionally overwhelming, not just for patients, but for the people who love them,” said Aubrey Engle, RN, Executive Director. “Our Home Health team provides guidance, reassurance, and practical tools so individuals can feel more in control of their health and more supported in their daily lives. We work alongside their cardiology team to ensure care is coordinated, compassionate, and focused on what matters most to each person.”
During Heart Health Month, community members living with heart failure or other advanced cardiac conditions are encouraged to learn more about available support.
Don’t wait to ask about how our compassionate staff can help your loved ones. To qualify for home health care, a person must have a physician’s order and demonstrate a need for skilled care that can be safely provided at home. Our focus is on providing comfort to patients and support to families, with our team available 24/7 to address any concerns. The call is free, and our professionals are ready to assist you! Call us today at 603-536-2232 to learn more.
Supporting Families During National Heart Health Month
