Senior Heart Health: Habits for a Healthy Heart
Taking care of our heart health becomes increasingly vital as we age. After all, our heart pumps tirelessly throughout our entire lives. This resilient organ deserves our utmost care and attention, especially as we enter our golden years. Fortunately, taking care of our hearts even in older age isn’t an elusive goal. Seniors can modify their lifestyles and adopt new habits that promote a healthy heart and reduce their risk of heart disease.
February is American Heart Month. Visiting Angels Fond du Lac wants all seniors to live a longer, healthier life so that they can enjoy more of life’s precious moments. It all starts with prioritizing our heart health. Here are four habits for a healthy heart that are essential for seniors.
Develop the Habit of Eating a Heart-Healthy Diet
Eating a heart-healthy diet is the number one habit seniors should develop to promote their cardiovascular health. Heart-healthy foods include nutrient-rich whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. At the same time, a heart-healthy diet is low in saturated fats, processed foods, sodium, and sugar. The latter should only be consumed in moderation. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Fond du Lac County Extension provides information regarding food resources for seniors and updates the website regularly. The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Fond du Lac County can help homebound seniors receive home-delivered meals.
Develop the Habit of Staying Active
Along with a heart-healthy diet, the second most essential habit for a healthy heart is staying active. Exercise and physical activity remain crucial for a healthy heart at any age. Seniors should participate in regular exercise that includes moderate-intense activity, strength training, and balance exercises. Whether it’s walking, swimming, or enrolling in a senior fitness class at Fond du Lac Family YMCA, staying active strengthens the heart and helps older adults manage weight.
Develop the Habit of Monitoring Blood Pressure
Seniors have an increased risk for hypertension or high blood pressure. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke, among other chronic health conditions. It’s also only detected through regular health check-ups; there are no symptoms for the condition. Develop the habit of monitoring your blood pressure by scheduling regular doctor appointments with your primary care physician. If necessary, purchase a home blood pressure monitor so you can check your blood pressure daily. Local drugstores, such as Walgreens or CVS. The Fond du Lac Family YMCA offers free blood pressure screenings and blood pressure cuff education sessions bi-monthly.
The last habit for a healthy heart is the habit of maintaining friendships. Social connections are vital for seniors and can positively affect their heart health. A strong social support network ensures seniors ward off feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Participating in meaningful conversation helps lower stress and can influence other healthy behaviors, such as staying active and eating a healthy diet. If your social network is lacking, check out the Fond du Lac Senior Center. The Senior Center is a place of belonging and provides engaging activities that can help seniors break the ice and meet new friends.
It’s never too late for seniors to start prioritizing their heart health. Nurturing a healthy heart involves a holistic approach, including good eating habits, staying active, seeking regular medical care, and embracing friendships. This can be challenging for some seniors who struggle to maintain their independence at home. Fortunately, Visiting Angels Fond du Lac is here to help. We provide exceptional elderly care services for seniors in and around the Fond du Lac area. Our compassionate caregivers can assist with meal planning and preparation, escort you on a walk or drive you to the local YMCA so you can exercise, and remind you to check your blood pressure. They also offer friendly companionship and can become an extension of your social support network. Moreover, our caregivers offer supportive encouragement as you pursue a heart-healthy lifestyle. Don’t wait another day to receive the help you need. Contact us to arrange your complimentary in-home consultation and learn more about how we can help.