ROME—Family and staff of Giulio Andreotti, Italy's former seven-time premier, say he is feeling better and wants to go home from the Rome hospital where he is being treated for heart problems.

Andreotti, 93, was hospitalized in intensive care Thursday for cardiac problems stemming from a respiratory condition.

His secretary, Patrizia Chilelli, told reporters after visiting him Friday in Gemelli Polyclinic that he "is OK and wants to go home" but will stay hospitalized for a few more days.

A son-in-law, Marco Ravaglioli, said Andreotti was breathing on his own and had requested to receive Communion, as he does every day.