At Senior Helpers Greensburg, we're committed to helping our seniors stay healthy and active. February is American Heart Month. This time serves as a reminder for seniors to take care of their heart health. This blog post will highlight several tests that seniors should consider taking for their heart health.
What Is American Heart Month?
American Heart Month is an annual observation throughout the month of February. It was established in 1963 by President Lyndon B. Johnson with a Presidential proclamation designed to raise awareness and remind people, especially seniors, about how important it is to take care of their hearts. These days, healthcare experts and doctors promote the month as a time for people of all ages to get proactive about heart health.
Tests to Take for Heart Health
There are several key tests seniors should consider taking each year, or more often if recommended by their doctor, to maintain their heart health. Here are three important tests that are especially good for seniors to take on a regular basis.
Blood Pressure Test
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease. Keeping track of and managing your blood pressure can help reduce the chance of developing cardiovascular issues.
You should talk to your doctor about what constitutes a healthy blood pressure reading for you and take this test regularly as recommended by your doctor. For some seniors, this could mean checking their blood pressure daily with a simple kit that can be purchased from a drugstore. For others who haven't shown any signs of concern related to their blood pressure, taking a test at their doctor's office every few months is ideal.
Blood Glucose Test
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is another important factor when it comes to maintaining good heart health. Research suggests that diabetes increases the risk of developing cardiovascular issues in seniors. Therefore, checking blood sugar levels regularly with a simple kit is something your doctor may advise you to do. Your healthcare provider may also recommend having an empty stomach test done by your local lab annually or bi-annually.
Stress Test
Stress is another major factor that can negatively impact heart health. Seniors should take the time to talk to their doctor about how stress may affect their overall health and inquire about a possible stress test to identify and help manage any potential issues. Your doctor may recommend different stress management techniques or medications that can reduce the risk of health complications due to high levels of chronic stress.
Senior Helpers Offers Compassionate, In-Home Care Services
American Heart Month is a great time to make sure seniors are staying on top of their heart health. If you are looking for ways to ensure that you or your senior loved one in Greensburg, Jeanette, Irwin, North Huntingdon, Latrobe, Monroeville, Murrysville, Export, Delmont, and Mt. Pleasant are taken care of and supported, contact Senior Helpers today!