The importance of keeping the heart healthy increases with age. The heart needs care and attention just like any other muscle, especially as the years pass and the risk of cardiovascular problems increases. Fortunately, with the help of senior home care and loved ones, seniors can incorporate healthy habits into their daily routines to help them maintain good heart health.

Focus on Staying Active

One of the best strategies to keep the heart healthy is to exercise regularly. Walking, swimming, or cycling for at least half an hour a day are examples of moderate-intensity workouts that can help seniors’ cardiovascular health, lower their blood pressure, and minimize their risk of heart disease. They can also take advantage of group classes or online videos that focus on yoga, dancing, and tai chi.

It’s important to note that staying active doesn’t necessarily mean working out. Seniors may also have active habits, like gardening, that help them maintain heart health.

Senior home care can facilitate seniors staying active with transportation services and accompaniment.

Focus on a Good Diet

An appropriate diet is essential for heart health. Seniors should concentrate on eating a range of meals high in nutrients that support heart health, such as the following:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health.
• Whole Grains: High-fiber foods, such as brown rice, oats, and whole-grain bread, can help decrease cholesterol.
• Lean Proteins: Seniors should steer clear of red meats, which may be high in saturated fats, and opt instead for fish, chicken, beans, and lentils.
• Healthy Fats: Include foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as flaxseeds or fatty fish like salmon, as these can reduce the risk of heart disease and inflammation.
• Limit Sugar and Sodium: Cutting back on added sugars helps maintain a healthy weight and prevent diabetes, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. Reducing salt intake can also help control blood pressure.

For seniors who have never truly focused on their diet, changing the way they eat might be harder than they think. Still, with the assistance of senior home care providers, they can learn how to add healthier foods to their days and even learn new, healthier ways to cook some of their favorite foods.

Focus on Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

Since blood pressure and cholesterol are important indicators of heart health, regular monitoring is essential. In order to maintain them within healthy limits, seniors should have these levels monitored on a regular basis, alter their lifestyle, or take medications as directed.

Focus on Stress Management

Prolonged stress can harm the heart and cause hypertension and other cardiovascular problems. Seniors who practice light exercise, like tai chi, or relaxation techniques like meditation can effectively control their stress. Maintaining social ties with loved ones and friends is also essential for emotional support, which is critical for general well-being.

Focus on Sleeping Well

Heart health is improved when seniors get a good night’s sleep. The risk of heart disease may rise with poor sleep quality or sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. To ensure they get the best night’s sleep, seniors should establish a regular sleep schedule and strive for 7-9 hours each night.

One way to enhance the quality of sleep is to create a calm and peaceful sleeping environment and to avoid heavy meals or coffee right before bed. Senior home care providers can help make these routines easier and calming for seniors.

Senior heart health maintenance requires a comprehensive strategy. With the help of senior home care, seniors can greatly lower their risk of heart disease and lead healthier, more active lives.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Senior Home Care in North Platte, NE, please contact the caring staff at AmanaCare today. Call (402) 440-5878, for Central Nebraska Call 308-663-3828

AmanaCare Provides Senior Home Care Services in Lincoln, Kearney, Grand Island, North Platte, Hastings, Omaha, Columbus, Broken Bow, Scottsbluff, Norfolk, and surrounding areas.

Sources:

• https://www.grandoaksdc.org/9-heart-healthy-tips-for-seniors/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/heart-healthy-diet
• https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/6-healthy-habits-strengthen-your-heart

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AmanaCare Staff

The word Amana means “faithfulness, loyalty, constancy, devotion, integrity, trust.” It also means “support, confirmation; a guardian.” At AmanaCare, our goal is to confirm the inherent value of our clients and to support them through their unique circumstances. By providing constant, reliable care tailored to each person, we seek to be the guardian that they and their loved ones can trust. Every person is a unique gift from God, and therefore care is not one-size-fits-all. We craft our care plans to assist with your specific needs, the way you want them done. We set your care plan according to family needs and help you remain an active member of your family and community.

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