I am so sorry that you feel so hopeless about the possibility of getting any enjoyment out of life, but understand that more than 60 years of being depressed seems like enough to know. I think it is important to explore all options so when you make a final decision you will have shown yourself the compassion of having learned and tried all you can.
I am not depressed always, but do also have concerns about going through heart valve replacement either through TAVR or open heart. If I am one of the people who ends up with a disabling stroke, to me it would be the worst way to have my life end up if unable to live independently and in control at home of my life. I am a very private and sensitive person and would rather die than be in a nursing home with no control over anything that happens to me. For this reason, I do consider the option to avoid valve replacement and you are the first other person I have heard utter these words.
In terms of a painful death from heart failure, if you are in a US state that does have legal medical aid in dying, once declared terminal, you can get legal access to the drugs to choose die peacefully after assessment by doctors that you are not having the decision on depression. Or can have hospice with comfort meds.
I am going to explore legal options for ensuring I am not put in nursing home to deal with my concerns first. Would prefer to have life saving TAVR if can be sure will not lose ability to get home.
Wishing you the best as you move through your journey.
