Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among adults in America. This can be particularly concerning for seniors, who face an increased risk for heart disease and may have difficulty effectively managing all aspects of heart health on their own. Heart disease accounted for approximately 697,000 deaths in the United States in 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That's roughly 20% of deaths in the United States. With heart disease being so common and so deadly, it's vital to take clear steps to protect heart health.
Daily Steps For Protecting Heart Health
It is important for seniors to focus on small, daily changes that can make large differences in their heart health. A few daily healthy habits can go a long way, such as eating a balanced and nutritious diet and quitting smoking if they smoke. Eating healthy can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve circulation, both of which are factors in maintaining a healthy heart. Eating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle for seniors. Avoiding sugar and salt can help make sure your heart and cardiovascular system are functioning properly.
Weekly Steps For Protecting Heart Health
Exercise is a key weekly step for avoiding heart disease. It strengthens muscles, including the heart, and keeps your body active. Work with a doctor to find exercises that are appropriate, and be sure to choose activities that are personally enjoyable, such as walking, gardening, or bowling. Stay active on a weekly basis and avoid long periods of sitting still.
Monthly Steps For Protecting Heart Health
Taking blood pressure readings each month helps track changes in heart health over time. Noting changes in blood pressure can alert seniors to underlying difficulties and help avoid future heart problems. An at-home blood pressure test may be more convenient for these readings than making an appointment at a doctor's office.
Yearly Steps For Protecting Heart Health
Seniors should plan a full physical exam with a doctor every year to check their overall heart health. During these checkups, they should have their blood pressure taken as well as thorough tests of their cholesterol (sometimes called a lipid profile) and glucose levels to detect and hopefully prevent future heart problems. Doctors may also recommend a stress test. These tests measure how your heart works when put under physical stress, such as exercise or walking on a treadmill. Finally, seniors can look into a yearly electrocardiogram (EKG). Annual EKGs can help detect subtle changes in heart health over the course of a year and allow for earlier detection of potential issues.
Senior Helpers Offers Personalized Caregiving Services
Taking these steps regularly guarantees that seniors remain on top of changes in their health quickly, allowing them the opportunity to adjust their behavior or take medications if necessary rather than waiting until it becomes too late.
Taking early steps to monitor and protect against the risks associated with cardiovascular disease is essential for seniors living at home who want to remain healthy and independent. If your senior loved one lives in St. Charles, St. Peters, Chesterfield, Ballwin, West County, South County, or Jefferson County, contact Senior Helpers St. Charles. We proudly provide personalized caregiving services for seniors in and around the St. Charles area.