Did you know that 84% of people aged 65 and older pass away from heart disease? Though age indeed plays a role in susceptibility to heart disease, it is not a definite inevitability. Diet and good exercise can help one protect themselves against heart disease. In the United States, coronary artery disease (CAD) is oftentimes the main cause of heart attacks, heart failure, and chest pain. Here are 7 ways to keep a healthy heart for your loved ones.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
Below is a list of symptoms of heart disease:
- Sweating
- Feeling faint
- Weakness or a sensation of light-headedness
- Having a hard time catching your breath
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Feeling very full or having indigestion
- Pain in the chest or an uncomfortable pressure in the chest
- Unusual pains in the neck, shoulders, or back
- An irregular heartbeat
Awareness is the first step to identifying and subsequently mitigating the problem.
Reducing Risk of Heart Disease
To reduce the risk of heart disease, one should treat other health problems that contribute to it. In essence, one should strive to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, keep diabetes in check and take their medication diligently if they have chest pain. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend that you take aspirin to decrease the risk of getting a heart attack.
7 Steps to Preventing Heart Disease
- Exercise Regularly
Get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise every day. Even brisk walking or simple stretches at home will be better than none.
- Stop Smoking
Among the myriad of problems that smoking causes, heart disease may be one of the most prominent ones and this gets worse with age as the body cannot break down fat and other substances as easily as it did before.
- Have a Healthy, Balanced Diet
Fruits, vegetables, and white meats are your best friend. Fish and chicken breast are good options; try to avoid red meats like beef. Remember to limit saturated fat, salt, and cholesterol intake.
- Regular Checkups with Your Doctor
Medical check-ups help your loved one (and their doctor) monitor their health conditions especially those pertaining to the heart, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Early prevention is the key to a long and happy life.
- Cut Back on Alcohol
Excessive alcoholic drinks consumption leads to liver failure and can exacerbate heart disease.
- Try Yoga or Relaxation Techniques to Reduce Stress
Find healthy outlets to manage stress levels and lower your risk of heart disease risk.
- Checking Up with Your Doctor Helps to Keep Health Problems Under Control
The hardest part to living a healthy life is the start. Help your loved ones age gracefully and with dignity and continue to support them in getting heart disease risks in check.
About TerraBella Lake Norman
At TerraBella Lake Norman, you never have to worry about living a healthy lifestyle as our assisted living community constantly strives to provide the support your loved ones need. With community activities such as cooking and exercising in-store, your loved one will be spoilt for choice and will have a support system from the other residents which helps the process. To find out more about TerraBella Lake Norman, please do not hesitate to contact us here or schedule a tour with us to walk the grounds.
