Five Lifestyle Changes to Minimize Senior Stroke Risk

Seniors who have a high risk of potentially experiencing a stroke need to make changes in order to lower their risk factors as much as possible. Some risk factors, like a family history of cardiovascular illnesses including stroke, may not respond to lifestyle changes. But that is no reason not to try reducing preventable risk factors by making some small changes. 24-hour home care professionals can make some of these changes a lot easier for aging adults.

Reduce Stress and Improve Mental Health

Stress is a huge factor in most health issues, but especially in cardiovascular health issues. When seniors have the support that they need, they’re better able to cope with daily life stress and reduce how that stress affects their mental health. Elder care providers can also serve as companions, offering social connections that seniors need in order to be as healthy as possible. Caregivers can also help seniors to stay connected with friends and family, which is essential for good mental health.

Quit Smoking and Alcohol

Seniors are grown adults, which means that they make their own choices. That might mean that they’re drinking alcohol, smoking, and engaging in other activities that might not be considered all that healthy. Family caregivers shouldn’t ever infantilize their aging adults by forcing them to quit these activities, but it is important to talk about how these activities affect health. Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the likelihood of experiencing complications that can lead to blood clots and cardiovascular damage.

Add Exercise to the Equation

Exercise helps to improve circulation, reduces blood pressure, and helps to manage weight. What’s really important is that seniors choose exercises that are suitable for their ability and that support overall well-being. It’s more important that they’re consistently active than it is for them to try to push themselves too hard. Seniors shouldn’t start a new exercise program without talking to their doctors beforehand.

Make Some Dietary Changes

Seniors hear a lot about their diet in relation to their health, but that’s because what they eat can help them to reduce risk factors that can lead to serious health ramifications. For cardiovascular health and reducing stroke risk factors, seniors should talk with their doctors about the changes they need to make. Adding changes slowly can be a good way to ensure that seniors aren’t overwhelmed with dietary improvements.

Get Help with Daily Activities

When seniors are dealing with a variety of health issues and trying to become as healthy as possible, it’s not necessarily easy to keep up with everyday tasks and demands. Home care providers help seniors to stay as safe as possible at home, have a clean environment in which to live, and conserve their energy for the tasks that are truly important. Seniors are able to focus on their health rather than worrying about how to get everything done.

Stroke prevention is much easier when seniors have a support network. 24-hour home care providers can allow seniors to take better care of themselves overall, and reducing risk factors that could contribute to a stroke.