Heart Health Tips for Seniors

Because the risk of heart disease increases as we age, it becomes more and more important for seniors to pay attention and adjust their lifestyle around their heart health. 

However, this isn’t meant to be scary or to imply you have to make drastic changes. Small, consistent lifestyle choices can make a big difference overall. Simply eating a balanced diet, staying active and managing stress in addition to staying on top of your regular checkups all help keep your cardiovascular health in good shape.

First, you should know the warning signs surrounding heart problems. The most common symptom of poor blood flow to the heart (which can cause a heart attack or stroke) is chest pain. Other things to pay attention to include swelling of the legs, fatigue and shortness of breath.

Thankfully, there are various lifestyle habits that lower your risk of heart disease. Some heart healthy advice for seniors includes regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet. If you stay active and eat a diet packed with fruits, veggies and whole grains, then your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and weight will stay on your heart health’s good side. 

Other key steps to protecting your cardiovascular health include:

Quitting Smoking and Limiting Alcohol Consumption Smoking is one of the leading causes of heart disease. If you smoke, quitting as soon as possible can dramatically reduce your risk of heart problems. The benefits of quitting smoking are seen almost immediately, with blood circulation improving within just a few days.

Limiting alcohol consumption is also important for heart health. Excessive drinking can increase blood pressure and contribute to heart disease. Enjoy alcohol responsibly and in moderation. 

Managing Stress Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health by raising blood pressure and increasing inflammation. Learning to manage stress through activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or simply spending time with loved ones can improve both mental and physical well-being.

Maintaining a positive outlook on life and practicing relaxation techniques can go a long way in reducing stress and keeping your heart healthy.

Getting Regular Health Screenings Preventive healthcare is crucial for seniors, so regular screenings for heart disease risk factors, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar, are important. These screenings can catch problems early, allowing for more effective treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Your doctor may also recommend other heart-related tests, such as an ECG or echocardiogram, to assess the health of your heart more thoroughly.

Heart health is important at any age, but with the right steps, seniors can live longer, healthier, and more vibrant lives.

Your Environment Is Vital

Becoming a resident at a senior living community like The Roosevelt At Salt Creek makes prioritizing your heart health easy. You can choose from a variety of healthy dining options, have access to wellness opportunities and a wide range of activities, as well as accessible on-site care.

Contact us to learn more!