Heart disease is America's leading cause of death, but there are steps seniors at risk for the condition can take each year to reduce their chances of developing it. Check out the four key steps your senior loved one should take to protect their heart health.
1. Get an Annual Physical
An annual physical is a great first step for seniors to take in order to check their heart health. During the visit, it's important for your senior loved one's doctor to discuss lifestyle habits and tests that could potentially detect early signs of heart disease.
Ask your senior parent's doctor about having cholesterol level testing done during an exam. At the beginning of the exam, the doctor should take your senior loved one's blood pressure, but you need to make sure it isn't overlooked.
2. Exercise Regularly
Exercise is key to preventing and managing many chronic conditions, including heart disease, especially for seniors. Regular exercise can help strengthen muscles and bones, as well as increase flexibility, balance, and coordination.
At their doctor’s recommendation, regular exercise can help your senior loved one stay active longer while reducing their risk of falling. Depending on their physical ability and limitations due to age or health issues, any form of activity that increases your senior loved one's heart rate such as stretching exercises or moderate aerobic activities like biking or fast walking can be beneficial even when it’s just a few days a week.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is essential for seniors’ heart health, and there are several changes your loved one can make to improve theirs. Eating a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables (especially green leafy veggies), whole grains, oily fish (like salmon and mackerel), and lean proteins (such as eggs or poultry) can help reduce cholesterol levels.
Lower cholesterol levels can help keep plaque from building up in arteries, which ensures blood flows smoothly into the heart. They should also limit red meats like beef and pork, salt, sugar-laden foods and drinks, and processed and fast food to further lower their risk of heart disease while helping with maintaining their weight.
4. Manage Stress
High levels of stress can wreak havoc on your senior loved one's overall health, especially when it comes to their heart. They need to find ways to manage and reduce stress in healthy ways, such as talking with a professional counselor or using relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. Exercise is also an excellent way for your senior parent or grandparent to de-stress and stay active, which could help protect their hearts.
Senior Helpers Lafayette Helps Seniors with Daily Life
It's never too late for your senior loved one to take steps towards a healthier lifestyle, which could potentially help lower their risk of heart disease and improve their quality of life. In Lafayette, New Iberia, Morgan City, Abbeville, Carencro, Eunice, or Jennings, Senior Helpers Lafayette can provide support for you and your senior parent. Contact us now to learn more about the ways we can help!