For many people, February is known as the month of love, and fittingly also happens to be American Heart Health Month. While the month marks a time to show our love to the important people in our lives, it’s also a time to make sure we show some love to ourselves, by making lifestyle changes to keep our heart strong and healthy. Heart health for seniors is particularly important because our heart undergoes many changes as we age.Celebrated every February, American Heart Month serves as a great reminder to individuals about the importance of taking care of our hearts, at all stages of life.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and a condition that is highly affecting the elderly population. Nearly 650,000 Americans die from heart disease each year and 1 in 9 adults (about 11%) have been

diagnosed with heart disease. Heart failure is also the leading cause of hospitalizations among adults 65 and over in the United States. And according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, problems related to the vascular system can increase the risk of dementia and other illnesses that affect cognitive performance.

Research from the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors and CDC revealed that while adults are living longer, diseases of the heart and circulatory vessels are prevalent in the growing population of older adults. Some factors that affect an individual’s ability to function and manage their disease well include comorbidities, along with cognition, sleep, physical balance, and strength. One of the most important ways to keep tabs on your heart health is to maintain regular checkups with your healthcare provider.

Taking Care of Our Hearts:

When it comes to heart health, everyone needs to take steps to ensure a healthy lifestyle and quality of life. Check out a few tips to help your heart and the heart of your loved ones:

Self-Care:

Get a daily dose of physical activity. Try to achieve at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week to stay in shape. Older adults often benefit from aerobic exercise and exercises that strengthen muscles, improve balance and increase flexibility. Exercise doesn’t have to be daunting when you’re doing something you enjoy such as a brisk walk with a loved one, bowling, gardening or dancing! Cook meals that are low in sodium and unhealthy fats. Salt can cause swelling in the legs and feet as we get older since we become more sensitive to it. Keep an eye on those nutrition labels and search for foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, colorful fruits and vegetables which are all great for your heart!

Take your medications as prescribed and keep your medical appointments. Sleep 7-8 hours a night. Manage stress through meditation, yoga, a warm bath or other calming activities. Try to maintain a healthy weight.

Technology:

Use a wearable device that measures steps, heart rate, and sleep. Use an at-home blood pressure, blood sugar and heart rate monitor. Search online activity and healthy eating planners.

Support System:

Even if it’s virtual, connecting with friends or family for support can make self-care easier and even more effective. Research shows that having positive, close relationships and feeling connected to others helps our blood pressure,

weight, overall health, and more.

By understanding the importance of cardiovascular health and how everyday activities can make an impact, we can ensure that, together, we are taking care of our hearts. Be in the know about your health. Attend regular checkups

with your doctor and be sure you can recognize the symptoms of heart disease—and if you do—seek medical attention immediately.

If you experience any of these common symptoms, make sure to contact your doctor:

● Shortness of breath with activity or when lying down

● Fatigue and weakness

● Pain, numbness or tingling sensations

● Swelling in stomach, neck, legs, ankles and feet

● Rapid or irregular heartbeat

● Problems with regular activities

● Tiredness, fatigue, lightheadedness