Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in America. There are numerous factors that contribute to the likelihood of developing heart disease, but, thankfully, there are also many ways to help prevent it. Whether your elderly loved one lives under the watchful eye of a family member, lives alone, or receives some kind of senior home care assistance, these 10 tips can improve overall well-being and help combat heart disease:
1. Stop Smoking
Cigarette smoking is a leading preventable cause of cardiovascular disease. That risk declines within months of quitting, and all but disappears in about five years.
2. Lower Cholesterol Intake
High blood cholesterol settles in the arterial walls, narrowing them and greatly increasing the odds of developing coronary heart disease. Look for total blood cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dL; LDL blood cholesterol below 130 mg/dL and HDL above 35 mg/dL.
3. Keep Weight within a Normal Range
Obesity is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease. Abdominal adiposity- excess weight around the midsection- is particularly risky, especially in women.
4. Get Regular Exercise
Daily exercise, such as walking, swimming or yoga can help maintain a healthy weight and thus lower the risk of heart disease. Exercise can also regulate insulin levels; therefore lowering risk of Type II Diabetes (Diabetes can elevate cardiovascular disease risk).
5. Eat More Fiber and Less Saturated Fat
Diets low in saturated fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can lower risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease.
Should your loved one have a diagnosis of heart disease, the professionals at Nightingale Homecare can assist your loved one in the self-management of this disease. See the details of our Pathlink Program.
Join us again for part two of this series where we will address the 5 remaining steps you can take to help combat heart disease. If your loved one requires homecare assistance in Phoenix, Scottsdale or elsewhere in the Valley, or if you have questions about in-home senior care, and how it can help your elder loved one manage or prevent heart disease or other health-related conditions, call (602) 504-1555 or contact us online.
*Consult your doctor before using any health treatment, including herbal supplements and natural remedies. The information presented here is for educational purposes only and is in no way intended as substitute for professional medical counseling.
