Heart Health Tips for Seniors

2/12/2020

February is American Heart Month, making this the perfect time to focus on our heart health. Adopting a heart healthy lifestyle may seem daunting, but there are a few simple lifestyle changes seniors can make to protect their hearts.

Know Your Numbers

Do you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol? Are there other factors putting you at risk for heart attack or stroke? Talk to your doctor about your numbers, what they mean for your heart health, and what you can do to improve them.

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

Experts agree that a Mediterranean diet is good for the heart. Focus on fruits and vegetables, nuts and whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats. In addition, eat foods that are rich in potassium, such as bananas, melon, cooked broccoli, sweet potatoes and mushrooms.

Avoid Sodium

Excess sodium can elevate blood pressure and increase your stroke risk. Avoid processed and prepared foods, which often contain a large amount of added sodium. When cooking, add herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt.

Quit Smoking

If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your heart. Talk to your doctor for strategies and support.

Move!

Physical activity doesn’t need to be intense to be effective. A simple walk around the block will help your heart. Incorporate movement however and whenever you are able.

Stay active and healthy with Martin Luther Campus! Our adult day programs offer opportunities for seniors to get out and get moving, and our long term care and assisted living programs promote and prioritize healthy living. Contact us to learn more!

Martin Luther Care Center is part of the Ebenezer family of Senior Care Communities. We provide transitional care, long term care, assisted living apartments, and memory care for seniors in Bloomington, Minnesota. We also have adult day programs for seniors living at home. We’re located at 1401 East 100th St., in Bloomington, MN.

Are you or a loved one interested in learning more about assisted living care? Call Amy at 952-948-5167 for more information and to schedule a tour today

2 Comments

Thompson link

11/13/2020 09:22:11 am

Thanks for the information. My dad is around 70 he used to sit and doesn't do any exercise. I showed this article now at least he moves around the house.

Bob link

11/16/2020 06:04:45 pm

I agree that too much sodium can wreak havoc on your bloodstream. I need to get a better healthcare plan for my aging mother. She is suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure.

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