Challenges and strategies for heart failure symptom management in older adults

Heart failure (HF), predominant in adults older than 65, is a chronic and progressive syndrome frequently associated with the burden of distressing symptoms. HF symptom management is directed at treating the underlying causes of acute decompensation, which commonly relate to lack of medication adherence or dietary restriction. Therefore, for older adults capable of managing their health care needs, promotion of self-care is essential for symptom management. Using the Model of Heart Failure Self-Care as a guide, the purpose of this article is to discuss the relationship between self-care and HF symptom management and to provide nursing strategies for assessment and promotion of self-care in older adults with HF.