How To Maintain The Heart Health of Your Beloved Seniors
Did you know that your heart’s health is subject to changes with the increase in age? Older adults are at increased risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes, thus increasing the need for care for your heart.
Years of use and activities impacting the heart can cause clogging or hardening of arteries and stiffening of blood vessels. This means that the heart has to work even harder to pump as effectively as it used to.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to boost your heart health and reduce your risk of heart-related problems.
- Keep Blood Pressure in Check
Your doctor checks your blood pressure, but this is also something you can regularly do at home as well. Take note of any changes, such as unusual spikes or dips. High blood pressure puts additional strain on your arteries in addition to other organs. You might note changes in your vision, cognitive abilities, or kidney function. For this, medication is an effective way to treat blood pressure and make positive changes to your diet. Moreover, regular exercises help as well.
- Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Aim to reduce your sodium intake by choosing low-sodium foods and incorporating more fresh produce, whole grains, and lean meats rather than highly processed foods. Doing meal prep and freezing single-serving portions can make it easier to have healthy meal options ready to go. Instead of adding salt to punch up the flavor, try a variety of fresh herbs and spices.
Cut down on saturated fats by going for low-fat or fat-free dairy products and lean cuts of meat. Increasing fiber intake can be beneficial by eating whole grains, oatmeal, beans, nuts, and fruits such as apples and berries. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water as well.
- Stay Active
Include regular exercise in your day, such as daily walks or jogs, biking, swimming, yoga, tennis, pickleball, dance, or other activities you enjoy. Set a reminder on your phone for regular breaks to get up and move rather than sitting too long. Exercise can be more fun with a friend, so buddy up to keep one another accountable and try new activities.
- Reduce Your Stress
It should be no surprise that stress is an additional strain on your heart. Explore different strategies for stress management to find what works best for you, like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, Reiki, journaling, talking with a friend, or listening to music. Clear your mind, slow your breathing, and reduce built-up tension.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking also damages your heart besides your lungs. So, it is never too late to quit. Studies have shown that the health benefits can be almost immediate, and quitting smoking can reduce your blood pressure and heart rate, improve your breathing, and lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation options to create a plan you can stick with.
Final Thoughts!
Make the most of your senior years by controlling your health, including protecting your heart. Partnering with an in-home caregiver can give you the support you need to plan and prepare healthy meals, stay active, remember to take medications on time and create a safer, more comfortable living environment as you age in place.
Contact Always Best Care at (925) 210-0323 to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our available services and support. We work with you to create a plan that fits your needs and goals.
