Aging and Heart Health in the Greater Miami-Dade Area

Posted by Scott Cantin in elderly care, Senior Health | 0 comments

Age affects every part of your body, especially your heart. As you grow older, the chances of a heart attack or heart disease increase. If you wait until your 80s to start thinking about heart health in the greater Miami-Dade area, it could be too late. Keeping your heart in good shape requires hard work, but it certainly is something that can be achieved. 

Here at Advancare, our team of professionals in-home senior caregivers knows a thing or two about aging and heart health. Here is some information on common heart issues for seniors, as well as how they can be prevented. 

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is caused by a condition known as atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty deposits, or plagues, in the walls of the coronary arteries over the years. These arteries surround the heart and supply blood nutrients and oxygen to the heart. When the fatty deposits build-up, there is less room for the blood to flow normally and deliver oxygen to the heart. When the flow of blood is interrupted to a large extent, it can lead to a heart attack or angina (chest pain or discomfort). 

When the heart muscle fails to obtain enough oxygen and nutrients over an extended period, the heart muscle cells will die and weaken the heart, which diminishes the ability to pump blood to the rest of the body. 

How Can You Prevent Heart Disease?

Fortunately, according to our senior in-home care specialists, heart disease is largely preventable. Here are some lifestyle-related steps that you can take to prevent heart disease. 

Stay Active

Exercise is one of the best types of medicine, as it makes your heart pump more efficiently. It also will trim your fat levels, so that your heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, but if that is too much, any exercise is better than none at all. Types of aerobic exercise can include walking, cycling, or swimming. 

Quit Smoking

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death, and it is especially bad for your heart. Smoking adds to the damage to the artery walls around your heart, which makes it more difficult for the blood to flow normally. If you smoke, try to quit. 

Eat Heart-Healthy Foods

Diet, as well as meal planning and preparation, also play a large role in preventing heart disease. When grocery shopping, try to choose foods low in trans and saturated fats, added sugars, and salt. All of these can cause swelling in the legs and feet. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, food high in fiber, and whole grains.  

Compassionate Senior In-Home Care in the Greater Miami-Dade Area

Here at Advancare, our highly trained and qualified team of senior care professionals specializes in engaging your seniors in activities that reduce the risk of disease. Our home care services include healthy meal preparation, going on walks, and short-term disability care.

To learn more about our services, contact us at (305) 441-9794 today.