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Protecting Your Heart: Essential Tips for Seniors

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among adults over 65, accounting for more fatalities than all cancers combined. Despite this alarming statistic, many people don’t realize they’re at risk.

Approximately 90% of adults have at least one risk factor for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity (American Heart Association, 2023).

Recognize the Signs: Heart attack symptoms can differ between men and women. While men often report sharp chest pain, women may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, jaw pain, or extreme fatigue—sometimes appearing weeks before an actual attack. According to the CDC, nearly 805,000 people in the U.S. have a heart attack each year (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).

Stay Active: Physical activity is crucial for heart health. Just 30 minutes of moderate movement five days a week—like walking, stretching, or light strength training—can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 40% (Harvard Health, 2023).

Eat Smart: A heart-friendly diet includes lean proteins, whole grains, and colorful fruits and vegetables. Reducing salt and processed foods helps maintain healthy blood pressure, a major factor in preventing heart disease. Reducing salt is often advised, but processed foods also contribute to high blood pressure due to insulin resistance.

Monitor Your Numbers: Keeping track of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels can catch issues before they escalate into serious complications. Research shows that managing cholesterol can reduce the risk of heart disease by nearly 20% (Journal of the American Medical Association, 2023).

Taking care of your heart is one of the best investments you can make in your health and well-being. Prioritizing heart health today ensures a stronger, healthier future for yourself and your loved ones.

Check out our weekly podcast hosted by Brian Harmon, PT, MBA and Jo Alch, RN with Joy Care Management.

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A show on all things Senior Care with important topics and guests to help improve the health and quality of life of seniors.

Available on Youtube, Facebook and itunes

 

Nexus Home Healthcare developed a proactive clinical approach proven to:

  • Reduce hospitalizations

  • Improve senior health and quality of life

  • Reduce medical costs to families and insurance

Contact us to inquire about our results and/or how our approach helps meet the needs of your patients and families.
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