Understanding your cognitive changes

You may have changes in your cognition (thinking skills) after a heart procedure. This can include changes with your memory or difficulty paying attention or problem solving. These changes can have a big impact on your daily life and safety.

Why does this happen?

Age, educational background, your health and cognition before surgery, or medication may be factors.  

What are some common changes?

Everyone experiences cognitive changes differently. Some people have changes that are obvious. Other people may have changes that are less noticeable.  

Some common changes you might notice include:

·         Disorientation (getting easily confused about a person, place, or time)

·         Poor short-term memory (forgetting things like your medications, important information, or that you left the stove on)

·         Word-finding challenges (cannot think of the right words or words may come out wrong)

·         Difficulty focusing or getting easily distracted

·         Difficulty solving problems or doing activities that are unsafe

·         Difficulties with visual-motor skills or coordination

·         Feeling more emotional (easily irritated, frustrated, or angered)

Who is part of your care team?

During your hospital stay, your care team will work with you to plan a safe discharge home and make sure you get the help you need. Your care team may include:

·         Speech language pathologists (SLP) – help with swallowing, speech, language, and cognitive-linguistic skills such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.

·         Physical therapists (PT) – help with your mobility, such as walking or balance.

·         Occupational therapists (OT) – help with your ability to complete daily life activities, such as getting dressed, using the bathroom, or functional cognition.

How can I prepare for going home?

Review your discharge papers with your care team before leaving the hospital. We recommend having your family, friends, or caregivers there so everyone understands what to do at home.

How can I keep myself and others safe after going home?

Your doctor may recommend:

·         Taking time off of work, if possible. When you have your doctor’s clearance, try working shorter hours at first.

·         Stop driving. When you have your doctor’s clearance, start driving short and familiar route with friends, family, or caregivers.

·         Avoiding certain activities and exercise. Examples include running, biking, sports, or using firearms.

·         Stopping alcohol or drug use. Alcohol and drugs can make your cognitive changes worse.

Your therapists may recommend having extra help. This may include:

·         Close supervision for a few days from family, friends, or caregiver.

·         Help managing medications, such as picking up your medications or making sure you get the correct doses at the right time.

·         Help with your medical care, such as remembering appointments or taking care of your heart health.

·         Help with daily activities, such as shopping, cooking, or housework.

What about ongoing care?

Outpatient rehab (SLP, PT, OT) is highly recommended. It is available at most hospitals. For speech language pathology therapy at Legacy Emanuel, call 503-413-1500. Try to schedule your appointments for 1 to 2 weeks after discharge. 

If you can, take notes on what you are having difficulties with. This information is helpful for your therapists during your appointments.