For Loved Ones

ABOUT LIVEBETTER

The purpose of the LIVEBETTER study is to find out which type of heart medications (beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers) contributes to a better quality of life in older adults with heart disease. Quality of life includes function, symptoms, and help with day-to-day activities.

Based on a 2020 Report on Caregiving in the U.S. from the AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving, nearly 40 million U.S. Adults are caregivers, with most providing care for older adults. A medication that improves quality of life can be important not only for older adults with heart disease, but also the people that help them with day-to-day activities. Care needs will be different for everyone and can range from helping with occasional tasks to providing around-the-clock care.

If your loved one enrolled in the LIVEBETTER study and you agree to be interviewed, we will ask about the type of help you provide, how often, and how burdensome it is for you. We want to learn if the heart medication (beta blockers or calcium channel blockers) has any impact on what you do or how you feel. If you want to learn more or have questions, a person from the research team can talk to you.

More information on this clinical trial is also available on www.clinicaltrials.gov.  When the LIVEBETTER study is completed, a summary of the study results will also be posted to this website.

Coping with Stress

If your loved one has other health problems and requires a lot of day-to-day support, it can be difficult. If you are feeling stressed, remember to also take care of yourself by:

  • Eating healthy foods

  • Exercising or going for a walk

  • Getting enough sleep

  • Doing activities together

  • Visiting your doctor for checkups

  • Joining a support group

  • Taking time for yourself

  • Spending time with friends

  • Keeping up with hobbies and other pastimes

Support Resources