Quality of life and end-of-life issues for older patients with implanted cardiac rhythm devices

Rachel Lampert

doi:10.1016/j.cger.2012.07.005

Quality of life and end-of-life issues for older patients with implanted cardiac rhythm devices

Clin Geriatr Med. 2012 Nov;28(4):693-702. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2012.07.005.

Author

Rachel Lampert¹

Affiliation

¹ Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Yale University School of Medicine, 789 Howard Avenue, New Haven, CT 06510, USA. rachel.lampert@yale.edu

PMID: 23101578
DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2012.07.005

Abstract

This article provides an overview of quality of life (QOL) and end-of-life issues that pertain to older patients with implanted cardiac rhythm devices. Most patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) enjoy similar QOL to that of other patients with cardiac diseases, especially in the absence of ICD shocks. Conventional pacemakers, as well as devices incorporating cardiac resynchronization, can improve QOL in appropriately selected patients regardless of age. In patients approaching the end of life, all devices, but especially ICDs, can adversely impact QOL in patients and families. All patients should have the opportunity to discuss the option of device deactivation.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Age Factors
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Arrhythmias, Cardiac / therapy
Attitude to Health
Decision Making
Defibrillators, Implantable / psychology*
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Pacemaker, Artificial / psychology*
Quality of Life / psychology*
Terminal Care*