Seniors should make it a habit to check their health and wellness. In particular, they should monitor their heart health. One crucial factor to consider is heart rate, which can provide insight into overall health and wellness. All seniors must familiarize themselves with their active and resting heart rates. This will let them know about issues they may want to address with their healthcare provider or in-home senior care specialist. Here's what you need to know, direct from Senior Helpers Winston Salem Greensboro!
How Seniors Should Measure Their Resting Heart Rate
Your resting heart rate is typically your heart rate at rest, i.e. when you are not engaging in physical activity or feeling stressed. Most adults have a resting heart rate of between 60 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). This number can vary depending on age and fitness level, but generally, lower numbers mean higher levels of cardiovascular fitness. Therefore, if you have a lower-than-normal bpm for your age group, congratulations!
The best time to measure your resting heart rate is by taking your pulse first thing in the morning after waking up. Alternatively, you could take it before going to bed after being relaxed for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to count each beat within 10 seconds and multiply it by 6 to get the total amount of beats per minute.
How Seniors Can Measure Active Heart Rate
Your active heart rate is your heart rate when you are engaging in physical activity or strenuous exercise. Generally, for healthy adults doing cardio activities like jogging or cycling, the bpm range will be between 90 and 140 - though this number can vary depending on age and fitness level. The best way to measure your active heart rate is by taking your pulse within 10 seconds immediately following a period of moderate-to-strenuous activity. Make sure to multiply it by 6 at the end.
What to Do If You Are Concerned About Your Heart Health
Seniors should advocate for themselves and their overall health. Symptoms such as a racing heart, chest pain, or difficulty breathing should always be taken seriously. If you're concerned that your heart rate may be above or below the normal range, it is important to seek advice from a doctor. Your provider can help advise further about any lifestyle changes needed for heart health. They can also give you some peace of mind by checking your heart rate for you.
Senior Helpers Provides Premier Senior Care
All seniors should make it a priority to monitor their health and wellness. This includes learning what their active and resting heart rates should be to keep your heart health in the best possible condition. If you are interested in personalized senior care services that address each individual's unique needs, contact Senior Helpers Winston Salem Greensboro today. We provide premium senior care to adults in the Kernersville, Greensboro, Reidsville, and Guilford County areas.