Healthy Habits for Seniors this Heart Month

February is National Heart Month — a time to deepen our understanding of heart-related conditions, prioritize senior health, and discover ways to maintain a healthy heart as we age.

As we age, the likelihood of experiencing heart-related conditions, particularly heart disease in seniors, rises, especially if the heart weakens and plaque builds up in the arteries. Moreover, our appetites may shift and our diets may suffer as physical activity tends to decline. While certain heart conditions can cause permanent damage, there are numerous proactive measures you can take today to reduce the risk of developing these conditions in the first place. Regardless of your age, you can maintain a healthy heart by making modifications to your everyday habits. Let’s explore how to get started:

Physical activity is one of the best ways to improve heart health. Experts at the American Heart Association recommend that individuals dedicate a minimum of 150 minutes per week to moderate exercise. By incorporating this heart-healthy habit into your routine, you can boost your cardiovascular endurance, strengthen your heart muscles, and reduce the risk of heart disease. So why wait? Start prioritizing your heart health today by adding regular exercise to your lifestyle.

Adopt a diet that promotes a healthy heart. Embrace an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables while keeping a check on saturated fats, salt, and foods high in cholesterol, such as fatty meats. Consider following a Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and fish and seafood, rather than relying on red and processed meats.

If you’re still lighting up, it’s high time to kick the habit. Embrace a smoke-free life and unlock a multitude of benefits, such as enhanced blood circulation, lowered risk of specific cancers, and a surge of newfound energy.

Excessive drinking can exacerbate health issues that play a role in heart disease, including hypertension, irregular heartbeats, and elevated cholesterol levels.

By maintaining a healthy body weight for your size, you can protect yourself against heart disease. Excess pounds can significantly raise your risk of developing heart problems.

It is essential for seniors (and people of all ages) to enjoy a restful night’s sleep. Numerous experts recommend that seniors aim for a sleep duration of seven to nine hours per night. Adequate sleep has a positive impact on brain function, metabolism, immune system, and emotional well-being.

According to research, stress can exacerbate numerous heart disease risks that older adults already encounter, such as high blood pressure. Dedicate time to discovering wholesome means to alleviate stress and decrease your susceptibility to heart disease.

During American Heart Month, let us be reminded to prioritize our well-being and take care of our bodies as we age, thereby reducing the risk of developing heart disease and other health conditions.

By increasing awareness, providing education, and promoting heart-healthy habits, we have the power to empower more Americans to lead longer, more fulfilling, and healthier lives while becoming advocates for heart health. It is never too late to embark on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle and lower our chances of heart disease.