10 Heart Healthy Habits Seniors Should Start Now

Home Care Assistance in Southfork NY

Heart disease is the most common illness that affects seniors. It’s also the most common cause of death among seniors. Medications can help seniors maintain heart health, but it’s also important that they make healthy lifestyle choices.

The day-to-day choices that seniors make can make a difference in their heart health and lower their risk of developing heart disease. Home care assistance is a great tool that seniors can use to help their overall health. With home care assistance, seniors are more likely to make good lifestyle choices like exercising and cooking healthy meals.

Seniors that are serious about protecting their heart health should start practicing these recommended heart healthy habits right away:

Eat a Balanced Diet

A heart-healthy diet is the cornerstone of cardiovascular well-being. Seniors should focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Seniors may want to try the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with lower heart disease risk.

Get Regular Exercise

Exercise is absolutely essential for heart health. Seniors should be getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling help improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and manage weight.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can strain the heart. Seniors should ensure they drink enough water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps the heart pump blood more effectively, reducing the risk of complications.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can take a toll on the heart. Seniors should practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga to promote relaxation and lower blood pressure.

Get Regular Health Checkups

Routine checkups are essential for monitoring heart health. Seniors should have regular appointments with their healthcare provider to assess blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health. Early detection of risk factors allows for timely intervention.

Take Medication as Prescribed

If prescribed medication for heart-related conditions, seniors should follow their doctor’s recommendations carefully. Missing doses or not taking medication as directed can lead to complications and exacerbate heart issues.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can strain the heart and increase the risk of heart disease. Seniors should aim for a healthy body weight through a combination of a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Seniors that need help losing weight should talk to their doctor and get home care assistance. By focusing on improving their diet and moving more seniors may be able to lose weight if they need to.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol can contribute to heart problems. While moderate alcohol consumption may have some cardiovascular benefits, it’s crucial to keep it within recommended limits, which is up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your heart. Seek support and resources to help you quit if needed. Even if you have smoked for years there are still significant benefits to quitting.

Spend Time With Friends and Loved Ones

Maintaining strong social connections and a support network can have a positive impact on heart health. Seniors who are socially active tend to have lower stress levels and a reduced risk of heart disease. Engaging in social activities, volunteering, and spending time with loved ones can all contribute to a healthier heart. So visit with friends, call family members, get home care assistance, and do whatever you can to get more social interaction.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Assistance in Southfork, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at (631) 685-5001