February is the month of love, but it’s also Heart Awareness Month—a time to spotlight heart health and share ways to prevent heart disease. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for Americans, with seniors aged 65 and older at a greater risk for heart attacks, strokes, and coronary heart disease. While some heart conditions are manageable, they can significantly reduce your quality of life. The good news? It’s never too late to prioritize heart health. Here are some practical tips to get started.
Embrace a Heart-Healthy Diet
You’ve heard it before, but it bears repeating—a nutrient-rich diet is vital for a healthy heart. Focus on colorful, in-season fruits and vegetables, aiming for at least five servings per day. Opt for whole grains and foods high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. At the same time, reduce your intake of sugar, saturated fats, and trans fats. Be vigilant about reading ingredient labels; not everything marketed as “heart-healthy” lives up to the name. Let today be the day you commit to saying goodbye to junk food and hello to healthier choices!
Get Moving
A healthy diet is essential, but pairing it with consistent physical activity makes a world of difference. Regular exercise can reduce your risk of a wide range of conditions, including heart disease. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily—or even twice a day if possible. Low-impact options like brisk walking, chair yoga, or gentle stretching are great ways to get started. Always consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine, especially if you have existing health concerns.
Keep Your Weight in Check
Maintaining a healthy weight is closely tied to proper diet and exercise. Carrying excess weight increases your likelihood of developing heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Speak with your doctor to ensure your BMI (body mass index) falls within a healthy range.
Manage Existing Health Conditions
If you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, keeping them under control is key to heart health. In addition to a balanced diet and regular activity, your doctor might recommend medication or other treatments to keep your numbers within a safe range. Staying proactive about your health can make all the difference.
Reduce Stress
Stress can have a direct impact on your heart, contributing to high blood pressure and increasing the risk of a heart attack. Finding ways to relax is crucial. Whether it’s enjoying a good book, taking a warm bath, spending time with loved ones, or prioritizing sleep, discover what helps you unwind. If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Recognize the Signs of Heart Disease
Early heart disease symptoms can be subtle, but recognizing them is crucial. Look out for signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or swelling in the legs and ankles. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
Support for Heart Health at The Residence in Bergen County
At The Residence at St. Peter’s, we’re dedicated to helping seniors maintain a healthy heart. From three nutritious meals a day to heart-friendly exercise classes and activities designed to reduce stress, we provide the resources you need to thrive. All while ensuring our residents enjoy dignity, independence, and a vibrant community life.
To learn more about how The Residence supports heart health and overall wellness, give us a call or visit our website: https://stpetersresidence.org/.
