Five Lifestyle Changes That Benefit Senior Heart Health

As many Americans relish the opportunity to lavish their Valentine with love, February is also a time our nation turns its attention to the number one killer: heart disease. February 2021 marks the 57th consecutive American Heart Month. Despite the American Heart Association’s extraordinary efforts to educate our nation about preventing heart disease, heart disease continues to be prevalent and life-threatening.

Today, medical experts work diligently to find innovative ways to treat heart disease. However, their progress is often hindered by the unhealthy lifestyle choices Americans make daily. The good news is that most cases of heart disease can be prevented by adapting one’s lifestyle. Here are five lifestyle changes that benefit senior heart health.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is linked to several medical conditions that only increase an older adult’s risk factor for heart disease. Such conditions include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. However, choosing to lose excess weight and maintaining a healthy weight enormously benefits senior heart health. Seniors who are within a healthy weight range are likely to be more active, eat healthier, and not have other medical conditions that contribute to heart disease. Please talk with your doctor about what a healthy weight looks like for you and seek their input on achieving a healthy weight.

Control Blood Sugar

As mentioned above, type 2 diabetes increases an older adult’s risk factor for heart disease. People with diabetes must learn to control their blood sugar. High numbers damage blood vessels and the nerves that control the heart. As damage builds, there’s a greater risk for heart attack or stroke. Protect your heart by taking control of your blood sugar. Take medications as prescribed and talk with your doctor if your regimen is confusing to you. Choose a low-sugar, low-carb diet. Eat lean protein, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Consider cutting sugar out altogether, or at least indulge less often.

Manage High Blood Pressure

Having high blood pressure means your heart has to work harder to pump blood. This puts additional stress on the heart, damaging blood vessels. High blood pressure is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it often shows no apparent symptoms. The best way to determine if your blood pressure is high, low, or normal is to get it checked. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, your doctor may suggest that you purchase a blood pressure monitor that you can use at home. Track your results and take medications as prescribed. Make lifestyle choices that help lower blood pressure while benefiting your heart, such as eating a low-sodium diet, limiting alcohol, managing stress, and ceasing smoking.

Exercise Consistently

The heart is also a muscle and can lose flexibility with age. Fortunately, it can be strengthened through exercise. The American Heart Association recommends spending at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. You don’t need to head to the gym or sign up for a marathon. Instead, head outdoors for a brisk walk. Other exercise options for older adults include swimming, yoga, low-impact aerobics, and strength training. If exercise isn’t a part of your regular routine, talk with your doctor before jumping in too hard and too fast.

Communicate Openly with Your Doctor

Finally, decide to communicate openly with your doctor. Communicating with your doctor is essential for improving your heart health. Many older adults feel embarrassed or nervous to talk with their doctor about specific symptoms or topics. However, your doctor needs to know about any symptoms you have, your regular habits, all medications you take, and any concerns you have about your life. Your time with your doctor is often limited, so make the most of every appointment by being willing to be honest. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing with your doctor, perhaps it’s time to find someone you can trust.

One final lifestyle change to consider to benefit your heart health is to partner with Visiting Angels Cape Coral North Fort Myers. Our comprehensive home care is customized for seniors based on their individual needs and preferences. We’ve helped thousands of older adults live happily and safely in the comfort of their own homes while giving their families peace of mind. Our caregivers are reliable and approach each client individually, allowing their client to maintain their preferred routine. If you’re ready to schedule a free consultation, please contact us today by calling 239-226-1620.