Heart failure: Conserving energy

Without even knowing it, you may be wasting energy every day. Finding easier ways to do things will give you more energy to do the things you enjoy. The following are ways to save your energy.

Plan ahead

Schedule time to exercise. You may find it helpful to combine exercise with another activity. For example, ride your stationary bike while you watch TV.
Organize your home and work area. Store things where you use them.
Plan ahead for rest. Schedule rest breaks or power naps. If you get too involved in activities that cause fatigue, try setting a timer for 30 minutes. When the timer goes off, see how you are feeling and decide if you should continue or rest.
Use waiting time to relax. Instead of being stressed by the wait at the checkout line or in traffic, use the time to practice relaxation breathing.
Schedule time for you. Plan time for hobbies and activities you enjoy. Lunch with a friend can reduce your stress and boost your energy.
Plan for meals. Cooking can be simpler if you plan and prepare ahead of time. Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal later.
Plan for shopping. A list will eliminate trips for forgotten items. Avoid going to the store at busy times.
Get out of the fast lane. When possible, avoid rush hour. Schedule appointments and errands at other times.
Stay flexible. Even the best plans may need to be changed.

Pace yourself

Pace yourself. Move slowly and easily. Stop and rest often. Don't rush.
Use your energy wisely. Identify when your energy level is best and use this time to your advantage. If you get fatigued in midafternoon, try cooking and doing housework earlier in the day. Save the midafternoon for lighter activities or a nap.
Find a balance. Don't try to do everything all in one day. Spread housework over the whole week, balancing heavy and light chores.
Set reasonable goals and make them realistic. For instance, clean only one room a day or decide to just dust.
Find shortcuts. Combine shopping trips with errands when you can. Avoid having to backtrack.
Climb stairs safely. You may need take up to four deep breaths before you climb stairs, "double step" to use less energy, put a stool at the landing to rest, or avoid carrying heavy loads.
Use a stepstool of sturdy climbing device when you reach for an object.

Make priorities

Evaluate your priorities. What do you have to do, and what do you want to do? What can you eliminate or simplify? If you never seem to have time for the things you enjoy, maybe you need to re-evaluate priorities.
Delegate work. Have family members (including children) help with housework. Have groceries delivered. If you can afford it, hire help. Also, your community may offer services to help with meals, transportation or chores.
Eliminate chores that aren't needed. Leave your bed unmade or let the dishes air dry. Use your energy to do something you want to do, instead of things you feel you have to do.
Recognize your limits and just say "no."
Learn to let go. Don’t be a perfectionist. If you enjoy entertaining, have people over for dessert or potluck instead of a five-course meal. Let others help you.
Simplify your life. Buy easy-care, wash-and-wear clothing so you won’t have to iron and hand wash items. Try a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Make your health your No. 1 priority.
Don't stand when you can sit. If shaving makes you tired, put a mirror on the table. Rest your elbows. Sit on a high stool to iron or cook.

Consider equipment to save energy

Equipment is available to help you save energy. These items can be found at medical supply stores, discount stores or local pharmacies. Some possibilities:

long-handled reachers
bath/shower chair
tub rail or tub transfer bench
hand-held shower kit
grab bars for the bathroom
raised toilet seat
long-handled sponge
long-handled shoe horn
long-handled sock aid