Spotlight: February is Heart Health Awareness Month
Heart health remains a critical topic even today. February is American Heart Month, a time when we can all focus on supporting our heart health, regardless of age. This month, take time out of your schedule to focus on your heart health, from adjusting your diet or getting more exercise to visiting a cardiologist and monitoring your blood pressure.
Heart Health Awareness Month Resources
If you’d like to learn more about American Heart Month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers several toolkits and resources, such as measuring and managing your blood pressure.
The American Heart Association also offers several resources on improving your heart health, advances in medicine and care, and volunteering. The first Friday in February is also National Wear Red Day to raise awareness of heart disease.
4 Ways to Prioritize Your Heart Health This Month
February is all about recognizing the value of heart health. However, putting that recognition into action can be challenging if you’re unsure where to start. Take the following actions to put your heart first this Heart Health Awareness Month.
Visit Your Doctor Regularly
Whether you visit with a primary physician or a cardiologist, regular visits can help keep your heart health on track. Monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol will help detect any issues that may arise. You can also discuss any medication adjustments necessary to ensure optimal heart health.
Exercise Often
Engaging in routine light to moderate exercise can help keep your heart muscles strong and improve your overall health. Walking a handful of times a week can enhance circulation. Performing more strenuous exercise at your discretion and under the care of a physician can also help improve your cardiovascular health.
Reduce Stress
Removing stress from our lives isn’t always possible, but reducing its effects on our physical and mental health can improve our quality of life. Practicing yoga or mindfulness techniques can help calm your nerves and decrease the impact of stress on your heart. Taking time out of the day to spend on activities you enjoy can also contribute to overall health.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
Seniors may need help absorbing the proper nutrients or abiding by dietary restrictions. However, a healthy diet can ward off heart problems and improve overall physical fitness. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet, along with whole grains and healthy fats. If you’re unsure what specific nutrients you need, discuss your concerns with your doctor.
Heart Health and Visiting Angels Webster
Among the many services Visiting Angels Webster offers, senior overall health and well-being rank among our top priorities. Our caregivers work to support heart health measures, from encouraging exercise and preparing nutritious meals to assisting with transportation to doctor’s appointments. If you or a senior loved one could benefit from support in encouraging heart health, contact us for a free consultation. Visiting Angels Webster senior home care services put heart health first every month of the year in supporting our local seniors’ quality of life.