Caregiver in Cary NC

Did you know that heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death in the world? The heart is one of the body’s most essential organs and heart health is essential for a healthy body overall. Unfortunately, many habits that are commonplace in our society are not conducive to heart health and World Heart Day (September 29th) aims to combat that. If you are a caregiver for an elderly loved one, you know that heart health is a top priority. World Heart Day is a great time for you to help your loved one to get back on track with heart healthy habits such as these:

Getting Regular Check-ups

A doctor can screen for heart problems in your loved one and help your loved one to treat and/or manage them. Encourage your loved one to ask their doctor about which screenings they will need and when such as for blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Your loved one’s doctor can use the results of these screenings to help your loved one to develop heart healthy habits.

Exercise

Getting regular exercise is one of the best things your loved one can do for their heart. The heart is a muscle and aerobic exercise strengthens it and helps your loved one to maintain great circulation. Make sure your loved one gets a doctor’s approval before beginning an exercise routine and then help your loved one to be consistent with it. Some great exercise activities include water aerobics, tai chi, walking, and cycling.

Eating a Heart Healthy Diet

Eating a heart healthy diet is a great for heart health as well as overall health. A heart healthy diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy foods. To keep their diet heart-healthy, your loved one should avoid excess sodium and saturated fat which has been shown to have negative effects on the heart.

Quitting Smoking

Smoking can put your loved one at risk for stroke, heart disease, heart attacks, and other health issues as well. In fact, it is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease. Quitting smoking is not easy, but it can help your loved one to improve their health and quality of life. Encourage your loved one to discuss smoking cessation with their doctor and see if there are ways you can help in the process.