We know that heart diseases increase with age, but the right lifestyle and care habits can help prevent heart disease risks. But what is heart disease? It's important to understand this term. The term is given to a group of different conditions that affect the heart. Some of the most serious cardiovascular events are heart attacks, heart failure, chest pain, and irregular heartbeat. Below, we mention some of the ways you can keep your health healthy.
1. Stay physically active:
Doing anything that gets the heart pumping is important like taking short walks can help. Even though, for some of our seniors, taking a brisk walk may be out of the question. Our facilities offer other options that are adequate for our seniors, including activities such as stretching, and daily “Sit n Yoga” classes. These activities not only provide physical activity but also interaction with other seniors. Being part of a community is also important for the heart's health.
2. Quit smoking:
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death, and we all know how bad is smoking for our health. But we have to remember that it’s never too late to quit smoking, even if it is later in life since it can lower the risk of heart disease, strokes, and cancer over time. Right now is the best time to stop smoking.
3. Follow a heart-healthy diet:
We don't have to take for granted the so-known saying “We are what we eat”. We truly are what we eat, and it's reflected in our health. Choose foods that are low in trans and saturated fats, added sugars, or salt. As we get older, we become more sensitive to salt, which can cause swelling in the legs and feet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber, like whole grains. In our facilities, we keep a healthy meal plan for our seniors.
4. Keep a healthy weight:
Having a balance between a healthy diet and being active is important to maintain a healthy weight. Older people need to eat nutritious foods and stay physically active to help maintain muscle strength and a healthy weight.
5. Keep your blood pressure healthy:
Keep your diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control. Follow your doctor’s advice to manage these conditions, and take medications as directed. Checking and maintaining our seniors' blood pressure and cholesterol under control is important for us, and we have a team qualified for that.
Our caregivers and managers at BETTER DAYS SENIOR LIVING have only our resident’s health and well-being in their minds. They cook high-quality, meals, check vitals, and encourage physical exercise to keep all hearts beating strong. Their health and happiness matter to us!