What can you expect when your elderly parent returns home after a heart attack? Depending on the severity, recovery and return to everyday activity may be relatively quick.

Medications: After a heart attack, medication is probably the most important thing. Because of failure to take medication regularly, many seniors don't get the proper dosages – with serious consequences. The amount of medication needed varies from person to person, and as a caregiver you should educate yourself about these drugs, their side effects and interactions, and the proper dosages.

Diet and Exercise: Medications are not the only help your loved one will need for optimal health after a heart attack. Lifestyle changes are also needed to avoid further attacks.

Exercise can help strengthen the heart muscle, boost energy levelsas well as improve emotional health through better sleep.

Emotional Changes: When your loved one returns home after a heart attack, you must be prepared for some changes -  not just physical, but emotional. It is normal for heart attack survivors to feel extremely fearful of another attack, or upset and resentful at having to rely on others for primary care.