Abstract

This paper is presented as a CPD refresher for staff working within the context of nursing and residential care settings. The paper focuses on the high incidence and prevalence rates of heart failure in older adults and contextualises the need for the recognition of symptomology which may be indicative of the need for further diagnostic intervention. An overview of the functional anatomical and physiological changes of the condition are presented, alongside key aetiological factors and pharmacological treatment interventions. The article concludes by consideringthe high prevalence rates of heart failure in the context of nursing and residential care, necessitating acknowledgement of specific address in relation to improving both quality of life and healthcare outcomes for older adults. Alongside this, the need to increasing the underpinning knowledge of the condition for healthcare workers caring for olderpeople as an imperative means of addressing those still undiagnosed with the condition or whose present lifestyles may predispose them to long term ill health.