With the month of February commonly associated with love and heart-shapes; why not make this the month we focus on our body’s heart health? It is the perfect time to learn valuable tips for a healthier heart. An easy start to better heart health is to try to eat greener and leaner foods. The more we add vegetables to our meals, the better it is for our bodies. Fish is also an excellent way to incorporate rich omega-3 fatty acids, which will boost good cholesterol. Nuts, seeds, green and leafy vegetables, and fruits are all delicious ways to lower the risk of heart disease. When preparing meals, limit salt intake and look for foods with the “heart healthy” label. Consider a salt substitute if high blood pressure is a concern. Processed and fast foods are usually high in sodium content, so it’s best to think twice before ordering that large order of fries.
In home senior care provided by compassionate caregivers from Senior Helpers of Lansdale is a wonderful resource for meal preparation for elderly loved ones. This service will give family peace of mind that fresh foods are made when family is unable to stop by during the week.
One quick way to a healthier heart is to get up and get moving. Even just a half hour of exercise is going to deliver great impact on heart health. Sitting around for long periods of time can shorten the lifespan. Taking small breaks from sitting at a desk throughout the day is ideal. Moving just thirty minutes a day will reduce the risk of heart disease.
It may come as no surprise that quitting smoking and limiting alcohol are important to improving heart health. Just one year after dropping the habit of smoking and the risk of heart disease is cut in half as compared to a smoker. Limiting alcohol is best to just one glass a day for a woman and up to two for a man. Moderate alcohol consumption can prevent blood clot formation. It’s just important to remember drinking less is better for the heart as well as great for avoiding weight gain. Extra fat in the middle and excess in belly fat is linked to higher blood pressure which can lead to other heart issues.
An often-overlooked tip for a healthier heart is to add more laughter to the day. Take the time out to watch a comedian or a funny TV show. Read a silly book or meet up with a friend who likes to chuckle. Pets are also great improving heart function. They offer unconditional love and simply petting a dog or cat is helpful to reducing stress. Spending time with loved ones is a wonderful way to boost heart health. Having a daily or weekly visitor to provide companionship for a senior loved one who may live far from family is extremely beneficial for improving their outlook on life and boosting their overall sense of wellbeing. In home senior care allows your loved one to stay in the comforts of their own home for as long as possible while receiving the level of care they need.
If you would like to learn more about healthy heart tips for your senior loved one and the many benefits of professional elderly care or dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to a senior care specialist today 215-699-5400! Senior Helpers of Lansdale provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal assistance, companionship, caring and consistent in-home senior care and so much more to all areas of Lansdale, Green Lane, Doylestown, Buckingham, Carversville, Chalfont, Colmar, Dublin, Erwinna, Forrest Grove, Fountainville, Furlong, Hilltown, Holicong, Line, Lexington, Lumberville, Mechanicsville, Montgomeryville, Ottsville, Perkasie, Pipersville, Quakertown, Richlandtown, Rushland, Sellersville, Souderton, Telford, Upper Black Eddy, Warrington, Harleysville, Hatfield, North Wales, Skippack, Worcester, Mainland, Cedars.