Why do LVAD patients need special vests?

It is true that LVAD patients may face constant anxiety about keeping their device safe all the time, especially in their initial recovery phase. But do you know that you can actually follow some strategies that can help keep your device safe and allow you to live with peace of mind? The LVAD vest is an apparel that is specifically designed to hold the batteries and the controller for you to make yourself free to move independently and actively participate in daily living. 

Although many LVAD patients are living a completely different lifestyle, they are still not aware of the benefits LVAD gear gives them. Let’s discuss why you need a specialized LVAD vest after LVAD implantation and how you can maintain an active life with this.

Living with an LVAD: Protecting the Device

Before getting into the device’s protection, understand the LVAD device briefly. Patients need to carry the LVAD controller and batteries that remain outside the body and are connected to the pump inside the heart. LVAD is a life-supporting device after heart failure, and it helps reduce symptoms that were previously decreasing your quality of life. It means you have a medical device that is supporting your life, and you cannot compromise on its safety. 

In order to protect the device, you need proper clothing that holds and carries the device, and regular clothing is not designed for this. Instead of focusing on the limitations of an LVAD, let’s focus on building a new normal and improved quality of life.

What is an LVAD Gear? Why do you need this?

LVAD gear is apparel that is made only to provide support and protection to your LVAD device. This LVAD-specific clothing carries the controller and batteries in the designated pockets with added security of hooks and loops. LVAD Vest is one of the essential gear that not only holds and keeps the device in place but also is designed with other features to help reduce strain on the shoulder due to the device’s weight and allow a full range of movement. 

LVAD Special Vest vs. Regular Vest:

Many of you may be thinking why a regular vest cannot be used while living with an LVAD. Here is why you need a special LVAD vest over a regular one:

• Regular vests have no specific pockets to keep your device. Also, you may face accidental driveline pulling that can damage your device. Without proper gear, you may face discomfort with constant device shifting.

• LVAD vests are designed with pockets for controllers and batteries, and also keep your driveline safe with a proper wire management system.

How LVAD Vest provide everyday benefits?

LVAD vests were only made to provide benefits in the first place that can help you live a better life with fewer challenges every single day. When you are still managing to live a life with an LVAD, this vest can help make it easier for you to go through daily life. Here is how you can have everyday benefits with an LVAD vest:

Improved Mobility:

While keeping your device safe, LVAD vests allow you to move without shifting the device, and also allow you to participate in light to moderate exercises. Like an LVAD Active Life Vest is designed to provide both convenience and mobility.

Device Safety: 

Your device stays safe in designated pockets, and hooks and loops further provide device stability. 

Quick-Access: 

Whenever you need to access your device, either to manage the alarm to the controller or to change batteries, LVAD vests make it easy for you with their quick-access feature.

Stylish Attire with LVAD Functionality: 

LVAD vests no longer look like medical gear; they are a stylish piece of clothing that allows you to wear your style without putting the device’s safety at risk. From the LVAD Denim Vest to the LVAD leather vest, you can choose according to your preferences.

Reduce Strains: 

The LVAD vest evenly distributes the weight of the device, which helps reduce the chances of shoulder or back pain. It keeps your energy and allows you to move throughout the day with maximum potential.

Improves Social Life: 

The LVAD vests help you blend in with the crowd and improve confidence in public, which allows you to stay active socially. 

Supports outdoor activities:

LVAD vests are now designed to support your recreational activities like fishing and hunting, as the LVAD HeartMate Textile vest for men features multiple pockets to support your activities.

Final Thoughts

An LVAD vest is an important piece of clothing for people living with an LVAD. It helps keep the device safe and secure while allowing for comfortable movement. With special pockets for the controller and batteries, it reduces the risk of damage and makes daily activities easier. Wearing an LVAD vest can improve your confidence and help you connect with others without worrying about your device.

FAQs

How is a life vest different from an LVAD vest?

A life vest is something that keeps you safe from drowning in water, and an LVAD vest is a completely different thing, which carries your medical device in its designated pockets. 

Do they come in different sizes and colors?

Yes, LVAD vests are designed to fit a variety of body types and shapes, so you can choose a comfortable fit and still stay safe.

Can I wear it while exercising?

Many LVAD vests are made for light activity and daily movement, which provides support without restricting any movement.