Senior Care: Strategies to Keep the Heart Healthy

Heart disease refers to several types of heart conditions like coronary artery disease and aortic disease. The leading factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, diabetes, and physical inactivity. This puts seniors at a higher risk of developing heart disease.
Here, we will share effective strategies to improve cardiovascular health in older adults:

• Commit to a balanced diet.
  A diet that is high in vitamins, fiber, and minerals, and low in calories is ideal to improve heart health. Seniors should also avoid high-fat meats and dairy. To commit to a balanced diet, seniors and their caregivers should read nutrition labels and make time for meal prep each week.
• Stay physically active.
  A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of heart disease as well. Engaging in regular exercise will help seniors maintain a healthy weight and improve their physical well-being. Doing so will also lower the risk of conditions that cause heart failure, such as high cholesterol and hypertension.
• Learn to manage stress.
  High-stress levels are known to trigger angina and heart attacks. Stress also contributes to high blood pressure and similar heart disease risk factors. Seniors can manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or engaging in meaningful hobbies.
• Schedule regular doctor appointments.
  A senior’s healthcare provider can perform regular checkups and screenings to promote cardiovascular health. They can also provide recommendations when it comes to diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors that affect heart health. A doctor can also identify the signs of heart disease to prevent further complications.

These are a few ways seniors and their caregivers can improve cardiovascular health. By maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle, as well as scheduling regular visits to the doctor, seniors can age well and keep their hearts healthy.