Elderly Care in Irvine CA
The good news is that most people recover from their first heart attack and go on to live long and productive lives. There are steps your parent can take following a heart attack to ensure the best possible outcome. The chances of having a second heart attack weigh largely on lifestyle.
Diet
You and your parent are probably aware that some dietary changes need to be addressed. After all, the first heart attack could very well have been a warning sign. It’s time to make some changes and here is your chance. One important part of a heart-healthy diet is to cut back on saturated fats that contain artery-clogging LDL cholesterol. These are found in butter, cheese and fatty beef as well as many baked and fried foods.
Avoid trans fatty acids that are found in margarine and other packaged and processed foods. If it has partially hydrogenated vegetable oils in the ingredients—avoid it. In replace of these “bad” fats choose “good” fats such as olive oil. Omega-3 fatty acids should play a big part in the new diet plan. These are found in salmon, sardines and walnuts.
One particular diet found to be heart-healthy is the Mediterranean diet. This diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, fish, garlic, whole-grains, legumes and nuts. Herbs and spices replace salt.
Exercise
Regular exercise strengthens your heart and lowers your cholesterol. Your parent should aim for 30 minutes a day for a minimum of 5 days a week. They may have to work up to this. Work with their primary health care providers to determine the type and quantity of exercise immediately following their heart attack and how they can work up to the recommended amount.
Stress
A cardiac rehabilitation program is a medically supervised program designed to improve health and well-being and change lifestyle habits through exercise, diet and stress reduction. These stress-reduction techniques can include mindful awareness and body movements such as yoga.
Elderly Care Provider
It will take time and effort, but your parent can become healthier and experience increased well-being following a heart attack. They may require some assistance during the healing phase. An elderly care provider can assist with the daily activities of living such as bathing and dressing. Many heart attack survivors report fear and depression following the attack. Keeping your loved one active and engaged is an important deterrence. In addition to providing companionship, elderly care providers can prepare heart-healthy meals and provide transportation to exercise classes and follow-up medical appointments. They can accompany your parent on daily walks and assist them in promoting a lifestyle in which their heart thrives.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Irvine, CA, please contact the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today! 1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
- Follow These Four Steps and Create a Respite Plan - December 18, 2020
- End of the Year Holidays Can Cause Aging Veterans to Feel Lonely, but What About Home Care? - December 11, 2020
- Is Your Senior Battling Edema in Her Legs? - December 3, 2020
