Change of Heart

Advancing heart failure management by bridging gaps in care and empowering patients

Heart failure is a major cause of hospitalization worldwide, particularly among older adults. According to the Heart Failure Society of America, heart failure (HF) is a growing problem in the United States, affecting nearly 6.5 million Americans over the age of 20. The prevalence rate of HF in the U.S. adult population is between 1.9% and 2.6%, but it’s higher in older patients, with an estimated 8.5% prevalence in those aged 65–70. Researchers predict that HF incidence will increase by 46% by 2030, reaching more than 8 million people.

Dr. Chin-Yen Lin
Dr. Chin-Yen Lin

Dr. Chin-Yen Lin, an assistant professor in Auburn University’s College of Nursing, has been working in the area of chronic heart failure and the management of symptoms. According to Lin, patients with HF have impaired quality of life accompanied by physical symptom distress with dyspnea, edema or fatigue and frequently recurring stays in the hospital.

When Lin first started her career as a cardiology ICU nurse, she developed a strong interest in enhancing the well-being of individuals with HF. Her interactions with patients who were worried about managing their HF symptoms strengthened her resolve. These experiences emphasized a critical need for developing practical approaches to address patients’ needs, enhance their well-being and advance the field of cardiology nursing.

Her work in chronic heart failure management underscores the significant challenges and disparities faced by patients, particularly in the Southern United States. Lin notes that Alabama, among other Southern states, has higher mortality rates associated with HF compared to national averages. This disparity suggests a need for targeted interventions and improved access to specialized care in these regions.

“In Alabama, research on developing effective interventions and care plans for managing heart failure symptoms is crucial. Vulnerable populations, such as older adults, low-income individuals and minorities in rural communities, often experience disparities in HF care. Limited access to specialized cardiac care and resources exacerbates these health inequities, emphasizing the necessity for focused research and interventions tailored to these populations,” she added.

Lin’s research will focus on symptom management and self-care practices in HF, working toward understanding how symptoms impact patients, identifying challenges in managing symptoms and ultimately developing targeted interventions to alleviate heart failure symptoms and optimize patient well-being.

Recognizing the diverse needs across age groups, Lin emphasizes the importance of tailored interventions. According to her, the age difference in patients with HF can impact symptom management strategies. Younger patients may experience symptoms differently from older individuals, requiring personalized approaches to address their unique needs. For example, younger patients may respond well to more intensive treatment plans, while older adults may benefit from a symptom management approach that considers age-related factors such as comorbidities and functional limitations.

Treatment plans for HF aim to alleviate symptoms, enhance heart function and improve patients’ overall quality of life. While genetics contribute to heart failure risk, lifestyle factors and coexisting medical conditions play significant roles. Lin advocates for comprehensive treatment plans that incorporate both pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches.

“Although complete reversal of HF may not always be possible, particularly in the advanced stages of the condition, the progression of HF can be slowed with appropriate treatment, lifestyle modification and management strategies,” she said. “Adhering to treatment plans, following recommended regimens, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing self-care, monitoring weight and symptoms daily and seeking medical attention promptly for new or changing symptoms can enhance the quality of life, alleviate symptoms and improve heart function in patients with HF.”

Lin’s research focuses on enhancing symptom management and self-care practices to develop effective strategies for monitoring, recognizing, evaluating and responding to escalating HF symptoms. Extending her initiatives to rural populations, Lin aims to develop strategies that address the unique challenges faced by patients in remote areas. By focusing on tailored interventions specific to rural needs, she seeks to empower these individuals to manage their HF effectively despite limited access to specialized care.

“Dr. Lin’s research not only seeks to advance the understanding of heart failure symptoms and management, it also strives to reduce disparities in care, improve patient outcomes, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with heart failure, particularly in underserved and rural communities. Her holistic approach underscores the importance of integrating medical knowledge with patient-centered care strategies to achieve meaningful impacts in cardiac health,” said Dr. Pao-Feng Tsai, associate dean for research in the College of Nursing.

Information on Chronic Heart Failure
Chronic heart failure (CHF), also known as congestive heart failure, is a progressive syndrome that occurs when the heart has trouble pumping blood. It can develop over time and can severely limit activities, but it’s unpredictable, and some people remain stable for years. Symptoms include: