Heart disease poses a significant risk for seniors, especially if they already have risk factors for the disease. The good news is that there are several steps seniors can take to help them lower their risk and lead healthier lives. Having in-home care providers by their side also helps as they age; it provides the motivation that seniors may need to start and maintain healthier habits.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Knowing personal risk factors is essential for seniors. For instance, genetics and family history play a significant role in increasing the risk of heart disease in the family. Knowing this, seniors should take steps to ensure they have regular health screenings for blood pressure and cholesterol, as early detection and management is crucial.
Adopting a Heart-Healthy Diet
For some seniors, changing their diet can be challenging as it is the same diet they’ve had for years. This is where having in-home care comes in handy as they can introduce healthier options and encourage seniors to try foods that might be better alternatives to what they’re used to. The first step is consuming a balanced diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Seniors might also consider the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. This diet reduces sodium and saturated fats while incorporating nuts and legumes.
Increasing Physical Activity
This is another area where seniors might struggle, especially if they’ve led a sedentary lifestyle or have mobility issues. However, staying active is vital for reducing their risk of heart disease and helping them achieve better health in general. Most studies show that seniors should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly. Still, even starting with a few minutes per week is better than none at all. With in-home care by their side, they can start with walking around the block and increase physical activity to include swimming, gardening, and even strength training.
Managing Stress
It’s long been known that stress can negatively impact health, and this includes heart health. Seniors are hit with a variety of stressors each day due to the many changes that occur. From learning about a new medical diagnosis to hearing that a lifelong friend has passed away, the need to adopt healthy coping skills that reduce stress is vital.
Seniors can choose to manage their stress in a variety of ways. While some might try meditation or deep breathing, others may prefer to engage in their favorite hobbies or spend time with friends and family. Whichever path they choose is a step in the right direction.
Managing Existing Health Conditions
Chronic conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes impacts seniors’ health as well as their risk of heart disease. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers are essential for monitoring these conditions. Seniors should be encouraged to make and maintain these appointments. Additionally, with in-home care, they can manage any anxiety they might feel about attending telehealth visits.
By following these guidelines and using in-home care when needed, seniors can take proactive steps to maintain their heart health and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/heart-disease-prevention/art-20046502
https://www.ocanamedicalcenter.com/blog/how-can-aging-adults-prevent-heart-disease
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17385-heart-disease-prevention-and-reversal