I'm 87 now & have had afib for many, many years. It finally reach the permanent & persistant stage but I am now well controlled with the blood thinner dibagrantin (pradaxa), & the usual blood pressure & colestral meds. Did have to go on water pills as too much sodium in the diet can cause problems. I am also on my second pace maker to control my heart beat. I would not consider any ablation at my age & all my cardios & internst at kaiser agree. I am still in my own home . The persistant stage of afib can be annoying as i also have tenistis howling in my head, getting sidetracked helps alot. I am so sorry some of you have lots of problems with this. It helps to read up on everything you can find on afib so you have a better understanding of it & what the options are. The last cardiolist told me to come back in a year unless i noticed a problem. My last echocardiogram was very good.
Now if someone has any ideas for dealing with this arthritus chewing on my old bones i would love to hear about it about it. Take care out there. Afib doesnt have to be the end of the world.