February is National Heart Month, an excellent opportunity to pay extra attention to your heart and ensure it's healthy. For seniors, taking common heart health tests can be reassuring. They can tell you everything is going smoothly or provide early indicators of possible trouble. Familiarize yourself with some common heart health tests for seniors and talk to your healthcare professional about which ones might be right for you.
What is National Heart Month?
Each February since 1964, the American Heart Association has used National Heart Month to spread awareness about heart diseases and their prevention. Cardiovascular disease is this country's leading cause of death, taking around 700,000 lives each year. That's why it is crucial for seniors, especially those at higher risk due to aging or chronic health conditions, to monitor their hearts. They can do this by occasionally booking common heart health tests.
Heart Health Tests to Take During American Heart Month
During National Heart Month, seniors should talk to their doctor about undergoing regular heart health tests. These tests can help ensure their cardiovascular system is optimally functioning. Some of the heart health tests that seniors should get include:
- Blood pressure check: Seniors should check their blood pressure regularly to monitor for hypertension, a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
- Cholesterol panel: A cholesterol panel measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides in the blood. High levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Blood sugar test: Seniors should be screened for diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG measures the heart's electrical activity and can detect abnormalities that may indicate heart disease.
- Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create images of the heart and can detect problems with the heart's structure and function.
- Stress test: A stress test measures how well the heart responds to physical activity and can help identify coronary artery disease.
- Carotid ultrasound: A carotid ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries in the neck. This can help detect plaque buildup that can increase the risk of stroke.
Note that the frequency and timing of these tests may vary. The timing can depend on an individual's risk factors and medical history. It's best to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing schedule.
Looking for More At-Home Support for Heart Health?
If you or your elderly loved one live in Salem, Dallas, Keizer, Albany, or Corvallis and are due for any of the heart health tests for seniors outlined above during American Heart Month or at any other time of year, Senior Helpers is here to help. A trusted resource for quality in-home senior care, we provide peace of mind so seniors can continue living happily at home with comfort and security. Our compassionate caregivers offer additional support related to cardiovascular health and other areas like dementia care and meal preparation. To learn more about our services, visit us online or contact a Senior Helper today!