February is American Heart Health Month, and there is no better time than the present to learn more about heart health for seniors, and how we can work to reduce the risk of heart disease. According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, so it is very important to do what we can to make sure our hearts are healthy. Let’s take a look at some of the best and most practical ways that seniors can reduce their risk of heart disease.
Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease:
Stay at a Healthy Weight
One of the most effective ways for seniors in Alabama to reduce risk of heart disease is to monitor their weight, and do what they can to keep it at a healthy level. But, what is a healthy weight for seniors? The answer obviously varies from person to person, but consulting your doctor about your specific healthy weight is the best way to know for sure. Seniors in Alabama may gain or lose weight without intending to, so it is important to remember to monitor your weight, even if you aren’t planning on your weight changing in any significant way.
By maintaining a healthy weight, seniors in Alabama can reduce their risk of a whole multitude of health problems; not just heart disease. In fact, keeping a healthy weight will lower the risk of stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other common health problems for seniors. The process of staying at a healthy weight leads us to another key way to prevent heart disease: eating healthy.
Eat and Drink Healthy
Choosing foods and drinks that are heart-healthy is another great way for seniors in Alabama to reduce their risk of heart disease. Some good choices to keep in mind are foods with low sodium content and fewer added sugars. Increased sodium intake has been linked to increased blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Click here to learn more about how sodium intake affects your heart health.
According to the American Heart Association, added sugars have also been linked to an increased risk for heart disease in senior adults. Sugary drinks like soda are some of the most common sources of added sugars for the typical American, so be mindful of how many sugary beverages you drink. If you typically drink lots of sodas or fruit-flavored drinks, consider drinking more water as an alternative. In addition to cutting back on soda intake, also consider limiting how much alcohol you consume. This can go a long way in improving your overall health, and particularly the health of your heart.
Try to Live an Active Lifestyle
While living an active lifestyle is an obvious way for everyone to improve their heart health, this can be a very difficult task for seniors to maintain. As we age, being active requires more planning, effort, and care than in our younger years. One good way to stay active is to avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Simply making an effort to spend more time on your feet throughout the day is a great way to stay active without pushing yourself beyond your limit.
According to the NIH, maintaining an active lifestyle helps reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Seniors can talk with their doctors to help find what kind of physical activities are best for them so that they can take this step towards a healthier heart. One of the easiest examples of how to be more active is to make a habit of going for walks. Simply going outside for a stroll with friends is a great way for seniors in Alabama to have fun while staying active.
Heart Health at Cavalier Senior Living
Many of us take good nutrition for granted, but eating a healthy and balanced diet along with regular exercise is essential in maintaining good health. At Cavalier Senior Living, we cook delicious meals daily, and residents get to enjoy family-style-dining in an informal setting. All of our menus and dishes served are approved by a dietitian.
Cavalier Senior Living communities prioritize the health and quality of life of our residents. From organized outings and group activities to freshly made heart healthy meals, residents of Cavalier Senior Living communities are provided with all the means to enjoy a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Click here to learn more about the many benefits of assisted living from Cavalier. Contact us today to schedule a visit, or call us to ask us any questions you may have!
