As individuals in Raleigh age, it becomes increasingly important for them to take care of their hearts and prioritize cardiovascular health. Older adults are at a higher risk for heart-related issues, making it essential for them to adopt healthy habits to boost their heart health and overall well-being. February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease prevention and management. Read on to explore ways older adults can prioritize heart health on the road to enjoying more active and fulfilling lives.
Older Adults Face These Cardiovascular Challenges
Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans 65 and over every year. Older adults are at higher risk for experiencing these cardiovascular issues:
- Hypertension: Seniors are more likely to have high blood pressure, or hypertension, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Atherosclerosis: This medical term refers to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and lead to heart attacks.
- Heart Failure: The heart’s ability to pump blood effectively diminishes with age, increasing the risk of heart failure.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: Older adults are more prone to irregular heartbeats which can disrupt the heart’s rhythm and function.
- Coronary Artery Disease: This condition occurs when the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen and nutrients narrow, leading to chest pain or heart attacks.
- Diabetes: Seniors with diabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular complications.
Heart Health Tips and Strategies for Older Adults in Raleigh
Thankfully, as a senior, there are several proven ways to maintain your heart health and prevent cardiovascular issues, including:
Stay Physically Active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, Yoga, swimming, or biking. Incorporate strength training exercises to help maintain muscle mass and support heart health. Physical activity strengthens the heart muscle and helps improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and manage weight.
Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet
To support heart health, seniors should eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars, as these can cause or exacerbate heart issues.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Because excess body weight can strain the heart and increase the risk of heart disease, be mindful of your diet and exercise habits. In addition to regular physical activity, focus on portion control, sensible eating, and seeking support from a healthcare provider or nutritionist to help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can be detrimental to heart health. Relieve pent-up stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or Yoga. Engaging in activities you enjoy, spending time with loved ones, and incorporating stress-reducing practices into your daily routine can help lower stress levels and support heart health.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels
Regular check-ups and screenings can help you stay on top of your heart health game. Use an in-home blood pressure monitor to check your blood pressure regularly and track any changes. Work with your healthcare provider to monitor your cholesterol levels and make lifestyle changes or medication adjustments, if needed, to keep your heart healthy.
Limit Alcohol Consumption and Don’t Smoke
Excessive drinking and tobacco use can damage the heart and increase the risk of heart disease. If you currently smoke, consider seeking support to quit smoking and reduce your risk of heart-related issues. Limit alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and worsen existing heart problems.
How Professional Home Care Helps Promote Senior Heart Health
When needed, professional in-home caregivers can step in and support the heart health of aging-in-place seniors in various ways, including:
Medication Supervision
Home care providers can help seniors manage their medications and ensure they take them as prescribed to control conditions like high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol.
Dietary Assistance
In-home caregivers work with clients to create heart-healthy meal plans and assist with grocery shopping and meal preparation, helping ensure they are eating nutritious foods that support their cardiovascular health.
Exercise Support
Caregivers can assist seniors with daily exercise routines, whether going for walks, doing chair exercises, or engaging in physical therapy exercises to strengthen the heart and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Monitoring Vital Signs
Professional caregivers are trained to monitor their client’s vitals, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level, to identify changes and promptly alert healthcare providers—helping prevent significant cardiac issues.
Emotional Support
Home care providers offer companionship and emotional support to seniors, which can help reduce stress levels and improve heart health by promoting a positive mindset and emotional well-being.
Heart Healthy Habits for Older Adults: Applying What You’ve Learned
As we age, adopting heart-healthy habits to prevent cardiovascular issues and maintain a higher quality of life becomes increasingly important. Incorporating these heart-healthy tips and strategies into your daily routine will allow you to focus on cardiovascular health, reduce heart disease risk, and improve overall well-being as you age.
Remember that it’s never too late to start taking better care of your heart and that every small step you take can hold the key to enjoying a healthier, happier, and longer life!
Customized In-Home Heart Health Support for Older Adults in Raleigh
Don’t wait until American Heart Month to prioritize your heart health. Contact HomeChoice Home Care Solutions in Raleigh, and we’ll promptly get started creating a personalized program that supports your cardiovascular goals. As a fully licensed and accredited home care provider, our compassionate caregivers can step in and serve as an extended family in the home. We offer a comprehensive lineup of services tailored to your needs, including Companionship Care, Personal Care, and Respite Care.
While assisting clients in Raleigh, Durham, Wake County, Johnston County, Wake Forest, Chapel Hill, and North Carolina, our agency’s focus is maintaining their quality of life, dignity, self-esteem, and independence. For your added convenience, all our home care services can be individually personalized into an affordable package when and where you need them! Please visit HomeChoice Home Care Solutions now to learn more about how we help older adults prioritize their heart health or schedule a free consultation for someone in our service area.
