Why Heart Health Matters for Seniors

As we age, our hearts work harder to keep up with the body's demands. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), nearly 70% of adults over 60 have some form of cardiovascular disease. This means seniors are at an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. However, with the right lifestyle choices and support, older adults can take proactive steps to maintain a strong, healthy heart.

Home care agencies like Visiting Angels, are a great source of support for heart health by providing seniors with in-home services, guidance, and companionship for seniors in the Twin Cities metro area. Here’s how in-home care helps seniors live healthier, more fulfilling 

Understanding Heart Health as We Age

Aging affects the cardiovascular system in multiple ways, like:

• Stiffening arteries and blood vessels, the National Institute on Aging discusses how this can lead to higher blood pressure.
• Changes in heart rhythm, as the body ages, the change in rhythm increases the risk of arrhythmias and heart disease as indicated by MedlinePlus.
• Slower heart rate response to exercise,  this makes recovery take longer after physical exercise.

Even with these natural changes, simple habits—such as regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, and positive mental health —can make a big difference in a persons' cardiovascular health.

5 Key Ways Seniors Can Improve Heart Health

1. Keep Moving with Heart-Healthy Exercises
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends seniors and older adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.  Examples of this include activities like:

• Walking: A great, low-impact way to strengthen the heart and increase blood circulation.
• Water Aerobics: This is easy on the joints and provides great cardiovascular benefits.
• Chair Yoga: Yoga increases overall flexibility and can help reduce stress, this also helps lower blood pressure.
• Dancing: A great fun, social activity that is great for heart health!

Consistent movement can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 30%.

2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Following a healthy diet can lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. Seniors, especially, should focus on:

• Greens (spinach, kale): Greens are a great source of antioxidants and fiber.
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel): These are packed with omega-3s, for heart health.
• Whole grains (oats, brown rice): Grains help to lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
• Nuts and seeds: Options like almonds, sunflower seeds, walnuts, etc. contain heart-healthy fats that reduce inflammation.

The Mediterranean diet is another option to help lower the risk of heart disease by 25%.

3. Manage Stress

Stress can cause high blood pressure and lead to heart disease. There are some simple ways that seniors can manage their stress like:

• Meditation and deep breathing 
• Spending time with loved ones
• Getting involved in hobbies like gardening or painting
• Finding companionship through caregivers or local senior programs

Social interaction is a big deal —a recent study by the National Council on Aging showed that loneliness increases your chance for heart disease by 30%.

4. Keep Up with Routine Checkups

Making an appointment to see your doctor on a regular basis can help catch new health issues early. Seniors should keep an eye on:

• Blood pressure: Hypertension can quietly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Cholesterol levels: High LDL, the “bad” can build up in the arteries and increase the chance of a heart attack.
• Blood sugar levels: Diabetes and heart disease often go hand-in-hand, so keeping your blood sugar at an optimal range is important. 
  

5. Get Support from Visiting Angels

In-home caregivers from home care agencies like Visiting Angels,  give seniors daily support to help maintain heart health. They can:

• Encourage physical activity through daily walks and stretching exercises.
• Help prepare meals to make sure they’re following a heart-healthy diet.
• Provide medication reminders so seniors are taking their heart medications as prescribed.
• Check-in on seniors consistently to ensure they are in good health and thriving on their own.

Offer companionship and emotional support, which will reduce stress and help with their overall well-being.

The Heart of Aging Well

Heart health doesn’t have to decline with age. By staying active, eating well, managing stress, and seeking social support, seniors can keep their hearts strong for years to come. With the help of Visiting Angels and community-driven businesses, older adults can take proactive steps toward better heart health and overall well-being.

To learn more about how in-home care can help seniors maintain independence and heart health, call Visiting Angels today at 952-935-0789.