Simple Ways to Boost Heart Health

It is common knowledge that seniors encounter several age-related health conditions, including heart disease. On the other hand, seniors may minimize their risk by making the correct lifestyle choices. Everything from eating right to exercising will help boost a senior’s heart health, but there are other things to think about, too. Here are five changes that your senior can make to improve heart health, and how home care can help them make these changes.

Quit Smoking Now!

Cigarette nicotine boosts blood pressure, decreases the amount of oxygen the heart gets, increases heart rate, has a detrimental effect on blood vessels, and increases the risk of blood clots. Quitting smoking may reduce their risk of heart disease and heart attacks by half or more. Smoking will also impact how well a senior can breathe through physical exercise, and it may be something that makes physical therapy much harder to do.

Focus on Heart Healthy Diet

A heart-healthy diet will have tons of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It’s also low in calories, high in fiber and rich in vitamins and minerals. Vitamin D, in particular, may lower the risk of heart disease and be obtained as a supplement or found in fish, mushrooms, and egg yolks. If your senior is struggling to get fresh food, it may be time to look for extra help around the house. This may include seeing if there is a home care provider available in your area.

Keep Active and Try to Move Every Day

Staying active increases energy levels and strengthens the whole body, including the heart. Swimming, walking, tennis, hiking, and dancing are all excellent cardiovascular activities. If your senior is struggling with movement after hospitalization or after an illness, this is when they should consider a physical therapist to help.

Learn to Reduce Stress

Back and stomach discomfort, asthma, headaches, sleeplessness, drained energy, and contributing to heart disease are all symptoms of stress. Encourage your loved one to try meditation and yoga, and regular exercise to lessen their stress levels. If your senior needs help sticking to a routine this is something that a home care provider can help with.

Focus on Weight

Seniors who are overweight are at a greater risk of developing heart disease. Seniors may lose weight by controlling their portions and eating less fatty meals. Obesity is linked to coronary heart disease and heart failure in the elderly. Being overweight contributes to high blood pressure and increases stroke risk.

Focusing on a senior’s overall health is the most crucial way to ensure a healthy heart. Physical activity and nutrition should be the two main focuses of a senior’s attention. Other things like drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes are two things a senior should also quit. They are bad habits that can impact heart health and how their bodies feel daily. It’s time to get your seniors the help they deserve. When a senior has the right team in place and can focus on physical and mental health, they can age in place much longer.