Heart health is very important for people of all ages. However, it is extremely important for those who are over the age of 60. If you are caring for an elderly loved one, it is important that you know cardiac-related diseases are the number one cause of death in the United States. This can be scary to think about. However, there are some healthy lifestyle changes that you can help your loved one implement, so they can protect their heart health.
Moving More Often
How much does your elderly loved one actually move? Exercise is extremely important when it comes to heart health. If your loved one lives a sedentary lifestyle, they are much more likely to have worsened heart health and worsened overall health, as well. You or caregivers should make sure your loved one is up and moving around at least once every hour or so. Even taking a small walk around the house can help to improve or maintain heart health.
Plant-Based Diet
Many elderly adults don’t eat very well. They may have side effects from their medications that make them have less of an appetite. They may not remember to eat meals three times a day. However, if you or caregivers are taking care of your loved one, you can help out. Having them eat a plant-based diet is great for heart health management. Vegetarian diets, the Dash diet, and the Mediterranean diet are all heart-healthy diets.
Limiting the Consumption of Alcohol
If you want to help your loved one with their heart health, it is important to make sure they are limiting their consumption of alcohol. Consuming too much alcohol does lead to health issues such as obesity and high blood pressure. If your loved one is going to drink, make sure they do so in moderation. If they need help to quit drinking, talk to their doctor about the best avenue for them to take.
No Smoking
Another heart health tip is not to smoke. Smoking will increase the risk of different kinds of cancer. It is also one of the main causes of heart disease. If your loved one is currently a smoker and they need help to quit, have them talk to their doctor. There are numerous smoking cessation programs that could help them to quit. For some people, in just minutes to days of quitting smoking, they notice a huge difference in how they are feeling.
These are some of the most essential tips for helping to improve or maintain your loved one’s heart health. Utilize these tips to help your loved one boost their heart health starting today.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Care in Laguna Beach, CA, please contact the caring staff at Canaan Home Care today!
1-844-CANAAN-1 (1-844-226-2261)
Sources
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/
https://www.heart.org/
https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/
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