February, celebrated as American Heart Month, is a timely reminder of the importance of heart health awareness, especially for aging adults. The heart is vital in maintaining the body's overall health. However, as we age, our hearts can become more vulnerable to various diseases and conditions, among which high blood pressure stands out as a notable concern. Routine monitoring of blood pressure is crucial for seniors, not only to keep track of their general health but also to mitigate the risk of serious heart conditions.
Blood Pressure Explained
Blood pressure is essentially the force exerted by the blood against the walls of the blood vessels. It's measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and given as two figures: systolic pressure over diastolic pressure. The systolic pressure is the highest level your blood pressure reaches when your heart beats, while the diastolic pressure is the lowest level between heartbeats.
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is key to overall cardiovascular health. High or uncontrolled blood pressure forces the heart to work overtime to deliver blood to all body parts. Over time, this can lead to serious heart conditions, making it vitally important for seniors to monitor their blood pressure consistently.
The Link Between Blood Pressure and Heart Health
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a concern as it contributes significantly to heart diseases. The prolonged strain from high blood pressure can damage the heart and coronary arteries, leading to heart disease, heart failure, or even a heart attack. It's particularly risky for seniors, as their arteries may already be narrowing due to age-related changes. Hence, controlling blood pressure is a key step in maintaining heart health in the senior years.
How Often Should Seniors Measure Blood Pressure?
Seniors should consult their physicians regarding how often to check their blood pressure. While blood pressure is checked at annual exams, seniors may need to monitor more often, including checking blood pressure at home. If they have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or have heart-related concerns, they should be monitoring it more frequently as advised by their physicians.
While at-home or self-monitoring of blood pressure is a good way to regularly track blood pressure, the method should be correct to ensure accurate readings. Proper positioning, relaxation before the reading, and using a correctly sized blood pressure cuff are crucial steps.
What To Do With Blood Pressure Information
Armed with consistently documented blood pressure readings, seniors can take more informed steps towards their heart health. Keeping a regular log of blood pressure readings helps in identifying patterns and recognizing any significant changes.
Understanding the readings is equally important. Normal blood pressure is around 120/80 mmHg. If readings consistently fall above 130/80 mmHg, it is advisable to seek medical attention, as this could indicate hypertension.
Keeping tabs on blood pressure provides seniors with an opportunity to intervene early before high blood pressure impacts heart health. Regular blood pressure checks are small steps that make a big difference in the journey towards healthy aging.
Receive Help for Seniors at Home
For seniors in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, and Marina del Rey, taking active charge of your heart health is imperative. If you need assistance at home to help manage your overall health and quality of life, reach out to Senior Helpers Santa Monica, your partner in ensuring quality senior care. Our team can assist with regular blood pressure monitoring, helping you stay proactive about your heart health and well-being.