February is American Heart Month, the perfect time to commit to a heart-healthy lifestyle. As we age, changes in the heart and blood vessels can increase risks for heart disease, stroke and related conditions that may affect mobility, independence and overall quality of life. The good news—there are steps you can take to slow the effects of aging in the heart and arteries, reduce risks, and help you maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle in the years ahead.
Develop Healthy Habits to Boost Heart Health
According to the National Institute on Aging, these everyday habits can help you maintain a healthy heart as you age.
- Stay Physically Active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. Research has found that strength training and aerobic exercise can both benefit heart health. Be sure to talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise routine to determine the types of activities that would be best for you.
- Quit Smoking. According to the CDC, smoking harms nearly every organ of the body and increases the risks for conditions such as heart and lung disease, cancer and stroke. Quitting smoking, even later in life, can improve your health and lower your risk for developing these diseases.
- Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet. Limiting saturated fats, sugar and salt, and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and fiber can reduce your risks for high blood pressure, inflammation and heart disease. The DASH eating plan provides guidelines and nutritional goals to keep you on the right track.
- Keep Your High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and High Cholesterol Under Control. Schedule regular check-ups to monitor for health conditions that can impact your heart health, follow your doctor’s advice to manage these conditions, and take medications as directed.
- Limit Alcohol Intake. As we age, alcohol consumption can worsen existing health conditions such as osteoporosis, diabetes and high blood pressure, and can have dangerous interactions with some medications. Make sure to read the warnings on your medication labels to understand the potential risks.
- Manage Stress. Everyone experiences stress at times, but chronic stress can lead to digestive disorders, high blood pressure, sleep disorders and anxiety. Finding ways to manage stress can improve your overall health and well-being. Activities such as yoga, meditation, exercise and spending quality time with family and friends can help to reduce stress.
- Prioritize Good-Quality Sleep. Sleep is critical for the proper functioning of your mind and body and can reduce your risks for high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and memory loss. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or you wake up feeling tired, you may want to try these tips for improving sleep. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea or other conditions that are impacting your sleep, speak with your doctor to get tested.
Ginger Cove Helps Seniors Stay Heart Healthy—At Home and Beyond
As Annapolis’ premier Life-Care community, Ginger Cove is designed to support a healthy, vibrant lifestyle. Our residents enjoy a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness center, resort-style amenities, beautiful outdoor spaces, and opportunities to build bonds through social events and activities.
For those who wish to age in place in their current home, Ginger Cove at Home offers access to our community amenities that support health and well-being, as well as care coordination, connection to Ginger Cove’s trusted resources designed to help people age confidently where they live, and a plan for what comes next.
Whether you’re exploring a move to a Life-Care community or looking for ways to stay supported and healthy at home, planning ahead creates more choices, greater confidence and peace of mind for the future. We invite you to learn more about the options available and discover which path best fits your life today—and tomorrow.
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