Ardmore, PA – February, 2016- Each February, the American Heart Association (AHA) raises cardiovascular awareness through Heart Health Month. Although heart health is important for everyone, seniors are at an increased risk for various cardiovascular diseases. As a result, Neighborly Home Care has provided the following information highlighting a few of the top ways seniors can reduce these risks and stay healthy for 2016.
Senior care should include exercise, including muscle strengthening activities and aerobic activities. The AHA suggests seniors get either 20 minutes of vigorous activity three times a week, or at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times each week.
Neighborly Home Care highlights that regular physical activity reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, certain types of strokes, breast and colon cancer, depression, and anxiety.
Seniors with excess fat are at higher risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. In addition, the extra body weight is a strain on already weakening bones. Seniors should understand their caloric needs, track their calories and get active to reach and maintain a healthy weight. Caregivers at senior care agency Neighborly Home Care can provide medication reminders, as well as providing and preparing healthy food options.
Well-balanced nutrition is vital for fighting strokes and heart disease at any age. However, as seniors age, their metabolism slows and their bodies require less food. At home or at senior care facilities, seniors need nutritious foods, such as whole grains, fish, vegetables, fruits, poultry, nuts, and low-fat dairy products. At the same time, seniors should limit sugary beverages and foods, sodium, and red meats. A healthy diet promotes better brain health and provides the essential dietary building blocks for a long healthy life.
Seniors should have regular doctor visits and understand the risk factors. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to heart disease and should be avoided. Regular doctor visits are advisable as well; when possible, a loved one or other caregiver should accompany the senior to ensure that recommendations are understood and implemented. For seniors, experts recommend having an Ankle Brachial Index Exam, which is a simple, noninvasive test that will help detect peripheral artery disease (PAD).
While some risk factors are uncontrollable, seniors can get active, lose weight, and eat a healthy balanced diet to reduce risk factors and promote long-term health.
About Neighborly Home Care
Neighborly Home Care is a leading provider of senior home care in the Philadelphia area. All of their caregivers are trained nurse assistants or have received equivalent training. Neighborly Home Care provides around-the-clock senior care or hourly assistance, based on individual needs.
For more information, please visit https://www.neighborlyhomecare.com or call (610) 658-5822.