As a geriatrician, I’m often asked about atrial fibrillation (afib), a common heart rhythm issue in older adults. In this video, I sit down with Dr. Cara Pellegrini, a cardiologist and an expert in cardiac electrophysiology, to discuss what you need to know about afib, including its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
We cover everything from lifestyle changes and medications to devices like the Watchman, which helps reduce stroke risk. We also talk about the connection between afib and stroke, how blood thinners play a role, and special considerations for treating older adults, especially those who are frail or have dementia, like Alzheimer’s.
If you or someone you love is dealing with afib, this video offers practical insights on managing this condition in the elderly.
Get the related references and resources on the podcast show notes page here: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/podcast/atrial-fibrillation-in-older-adults/
#AtrialFibrillation #Afib #ElderlyHealth #SeniorCare #CardiacCare #WatchmanDevice #HeartHealth #Aging #GeriatricCare
Want to learn more about getting guidance with YOUR aging parents from Dr. K and her handpicked team of professional eldercare experts? Learn more about Dr. K's Helping Older Parents programs here: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/helping-older-parents/
Chapters:
00:00 Atrial fibrillation in aging
2:22 What is atrial fibrillation?
5:35 What causes atrial fibrillation?
10:02 What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?
14:18 How is atrial fibrillation diagnosed?
18:30 How is atrial fibrillation treated?
26:13 Treating AFIB in frail older adults
30:48 Atrial fibrillation & stroke risk
41:13 Watchman for AFIB & stroke prevention
44:25 AFIB in dementia
46:22 Who should consider Watchman?
48:35 More to know about blood thinners
51:58 Questions to ask your healthcare provider
52:54 What to know about lifestyle
56:42 Conclusion
WATCH NEXT:
Episode #1 – Is Memory Loss Normal in Aging? HOP ML Podcast: https://youtu.be/6y6kJFF7nJs
Episode #2 – 10 Causes of Memory Loss in Old Age
https://youtu.be/8ccVK-Z8s3Y
Episode #3 – MCI, Alzheimer's and Dementia. What's the Difference? https://youtu.be/m8_kM_BQQXc
Episode #4 – What are ADLs and IADLs:
https://youtu.be/2JET0Vq6lxM
Episode #5 – How ADLs and IADLs change in early Alzheimer's:
https://youtu.be/dAIOQMFCSn8
Episode #6 – 10 Warning Signs of Early Alzheimer's Disease:
https://youtu.be/XX5Kw2OotL0
Disclaimer: The material on the Better Health While Aging Youtube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/disclaimer/