As we age, it's even more important to pay attention to our heart health. Changes in essential components of the heart, such as blood vessels, naturally occur with age. While we can't prevent age-related changes, healthy habits and lifestyle changes can make a big difference in protecting the heart over time.
Common Risk Factors
Older adults often have more risk factors that can contribute to heart problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and stress. Being aware of these contributing risk factors can help you learn healthy habits to protect your heart and keep it as strong as possible.
How to Keep Your Heart Healthy
Many older adults mistakenly believe that small lifestyle changes aren't enough to make a difference. However, this couldn't be further from the truth! Simple adjustments in your lifestyle habits can make a huge difference and help you build habits that improve your heart health over time. Some healthy habits to support heart health include:
Moving Regularly
Movement is essential for circulation (a key part of your heart health). Simple lifestyle changes, such as walking around the block or taking short walks after meals, can improve circulation and support a healthy heart. Other forms of regular movement include water aerobics and cycling. Moving periodically throughout the day can help support a healthy heart.
Choosing Heart-Friendly Foods
The foods you choose to put in your body also have a strong impact on your heart health. Choose heart-friendly foods whenever possible, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats from fish like salmon, and whole grains.
Avoid processed foods that are high in fat and sugar and contain oils that are harmful to your heart health. Some older adults find that planning their meals for the week in advance makes grocery shopping easier and helps them stay on track with healthy dietary choices.
Taking Medications as Prescribed to Support Heart Health
If your doctor has prescribed certain medications, it's very important to take them as prescribed. Missing doses or skipping doses of essential medicines could put your heart at risk. If you struggle to remember to take your medications, use an alert or alarm to set reminders so you never miss a dose.
Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for many parts of recovery, including how well your heart functions. Poor sleep can raise blood pressure and worsen stress levels, thereby affecting the heart. Aim to stay on a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Managing Heart Health With Your Provider
Regular check-ins with your provider are essential for monitoring your heart health over time. If you notice any changes in energy, swelling, dizziness, or shortness of breath, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.
Before your visit, write down these notes about the symptoms you're experiencing to help you stay on track. With the help of a trusted provider and preventive care, anyone can learn to support heart health.
Find a Provider Near You to Encourage Healthy Habits in Senior Care
Finding a great provider and building a relationship with them are vital to supporting your heart health. Visiting your doctor regularly and staying connected with your care team helps catch problems early and supports a healthy, active, and confident life.
To learn more, find a center near you and connect with a team that can serve as your partner in learning how to keep your heart healthy.
