Changes that happen with age may increase a person’s risk of heart disease. A major cause of heart disease is the buildup of fatty deposits in the walls of arteries over many years. The good news is there are things you can do to delay, lower, or possibly avoid or reverse your risk.
How Does the Heart Work?
Your heart is a strong muscle that pumps blood to your body. A normal, healthy adult heart is about the size of your clenched fist. Just like an engine makes a car go, the heart keeps your body running. The heart has two sides, each with a top chamber (atrium) and a bottom chamber (ventricle). The right-side pumps blood to the lungs to pick up oxygen. The left side receives blood rich with oxygen from the lungs and pumps it through arteries throughout the body. An electrical system in the heart controls the heart rate (heartbeat or pulse) and coordinates the contraction of the heart’s top and bottom chambers.
How Your Heart Changes with Age
People aged 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, to have a stroke, or to develop coronary heart disease (commonly called heart disease) and heart failure. Heart disease is also a major cause of disability, limiting the activity and eroding the quality of life of millions of older people.
Aging can cause changes in the heart and blood vessels. For example, as you get older, your heart can’t beat as fast during physical activity or times of stress as it did when you were younger. However, the number of heart beats per minute (heart rate) at rest does not change significantly with normal aging.
To learn more about the impact of aging on your heart, signs of heart disease and how to help prevent it, from the National Institute on Aging, CLICK HERE.
Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. It is quite common among seniors and can significantly impact their quality of life. Good nutrition plays a vital role in managing osteoporosis and maintaining bone health. Consuming the proper nutrients can help slow down bone loss and may prevent fractures. Senior Helpers explores key dietary strategies to support bone health for seniors dealing with osteoporosis.Essential Nutrients for Bone HealthFocusing on certain nutrients can assist in keeping bones healthy. Here are a few to consider:Calcium Calcium is the primary component of bone and provides the necessary structure to keep bones strong. Adequate calcium is essential for seniors to reduce bone loss, with a recommended 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day.Vitamin D Vitamin D is equally important because it helps the body absorb calcium. Without sufficient vitamin D, even a calcium-rich diet won't be effective. Sunlight is a good source of vitamin D, but many seniors need to rely on diet or supplements to meet their needs.Magnesium Magnesium facilitates the efficient absorption and function of calcium. A deficiency in magnesium can potentially contribute to the risk of osteoporosis and hinder bone health.Vitamin K Vitamin K supports Vitamin D in the body to improve bone density. Green, leafy vegetables are a great source of Vitamin K. It also contains healthy antioxidant properties.Protein Protein helps build and maintain muscle mass, which serves as a framework for supporting bones. It may also promote higher calcium intake and absorption.How to Incorporate Nutrients into Your DietYou can get calcium from both dairy and non-dairy sources. Dairy options include milk, cheese, and yogurt. Fortified plant milk, tofu, and leafy green vegetables, like kale and broccoli, are great alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options. Consider almonds or a smoothie with fortified milk for a tasty snack. Though sun exposure is a natural way to get vitamin D, dietary sources like fatty fish or fortified cereals can fill the void when sun exposure is not possible. A healthcare provider might recommend supplements. Eat a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains to support bone health and contribute to overall well-being.What Are the Challenges?Eating a nutrient-rich diet can be easier said than done. Seniors often face challenges like reduced appetite or dietary restrictions. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day increases nutrient intake. Lactose-free products or calcium-fortified food choices can help seniors meet their calcium needs. A healthy weight is essential to lessen the strain on bones. Seniors should consume a balanced diet and stay active to help support weight management. Simple activities like walking or light exercises tailored for seniors can be very beneficial after consultation with healthcare providers.Senior Helpers Can Assist with Meal PlanningSenior Helpers provides comprehensive, in-home senior care services designed with the health and happiness of our community's seniors in mind. If you live in the Cheyenne or Laramie areas, don't hesitate to contact us anytime at Senior Helpers Cheyenne. We are happy to help you or your loved one with meal planning and finding the right foods to support bone health to reduce the risk of fractures and enjoy a better quality of life. Call us today to learn more, 970-367-7014.
Maintaining heart health becomes increasingly necessary as we get older. Throughout our lives, our hearts work tirelessly to support our bodies. In our senior years, it becomes dire that we provide them with the best care possible. A well-balanced diet keeps our hearts healthy. Learn to choose the right foods that can help manage weight, improve cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure.The Need for Heart-Healthy NutritionTo maintain heart health, certain nutrients are particularly beneficial. Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fatty fish, are great for reducing inflammation and lowering heart disease risk. Fiber, abundant in whole grains and fruits, helps regulate cholesterol levels. Antioxidants, present in various fruits and vegetables, combat damage in the body caused by free radicals. A balanced diet rich in these nutrients can significantly benefit seniors, helping to maintain both heart health and overall well-being. However, seniors often face dietary challenges, such as decreased appetite, culinary limitations, or restricted access to fresh groceries, making it necessary to find helpful ways to incorporate them into the diet.Specific Heart-Healthy Foods to EatIncorporating foods rich in essential nutrients can strengthen heart health. Fatty fishlike salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart function. Whole grains, such as oats and brown rice, are packed with fiber, aiding in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them indispensable to a heart-healthy diet. When shopping, choose fresh, vibrant produce and whole foods. Farmers' markets or grocery stores in the Fort Collins area often have seasonal fruits and vegetables that are both fresh and affordable.Easy Heart-Healthy RecipesAdding heart-healthy foods to your diet doesn't have to be complicated. Below are some simple and nutritious recipes to get started:Salmon Salad: Mix canned salmon with a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Add diced cucumber, tomatoes, and a handful of spinach. Serve on whole-grain bread for a quick, nutrient-rich meal.Oatmeal With Berries: Cook oats in water or milk. Top with fresh or frozen berries and a sprinkle of nuts for a fiber-packed breakfast.Vegetable Stir-Fry: Saut your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots in a bit of olive oil. Add tofu or chicken for protein and serve over brown rice.These recipes are designed to be straightforward, requiring minimal preparation and cooking skills. Planning meals in advance can also help seniors or their caregivers prepare heart-healthy dishes throughout the week.Tips for Incorporating Heart-Healthy FoodsGradually introducing heart-healthy foods is a manageable way to transform your diet. Swap processed snacks for fresh fruits or nuts, and focus on balanced, smaller portions. Practice mindful eatingtake your time while eating to aid digestion and increase satisfaction. When dining out, opt for grilled, baked, or steamed options, and ask for dressings and sauces on the side to manage portion sizes and sodium intake.Building Heart-Healthy Habits for the FutureAdopting heart-healthy eating habits doesnt have to be overwhelming. With simple changes, seniors can significantly improve their heart health and overall vitality. Choosing nutrient-rich foods and sticking to manageable meal plans can make a lasting difference in well-being.At Senior Helpers Greeley, we are committed to assisting seniors and their families in adopting heart-healthy habits. If you reside near Loveland, Fort Collins, Estes Park, Wellington, or Windsor, contact us for personalized advice and support on maintaining a heart-friendly diet. Let's work together for a healthier heart and a healthier life! For more information, please call 970-344-9486.
Odor its a touchy subject, especially when it comes to the scents that may be associated with humans and the aging process. Some have asked the question: Do older people really smell different?As it turns out, a significant amount of research has been done on the subject with mixed conclusions.What You Need to Know About NonenalSometimes when visiting senior care facility or an older adults home, you may notice a musty, grassy, or greasy odor. While some have inaccurately linked this scent with poor hygiene, scientists have another name for it: nonenal. It is a researched condition that could be connected to the aging process.According to a study published by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, nonenal is a chemical compound that is produced when omega-7 unsaturated fatty acids on the skin are degraded through oxidation. Around age 40 in both men and women, as the skin begins producing more fatty acids, its natural antioxidant defenses begin to deteriorate. Hormonal changes like menopause in women can contribute to this chemical process as well.Not Everyone AgreesIn a New York Times column, essayist Ann Bauer discovered disagreement among researchers about this issue. Bauer noted that in 2001, Japanese researchers first discovered this unsaturated aldehyde called 2-nonenal that is more concentrated on the skin of older people.The Japanese study was confirmed by Johan Lundstrom, who used study samples from the underarms of people from the ages of 20 to 95 and presented them to 41 participants who ranked them on intensity and unpleasantness. Dr. Lundstrom and his co-authors found that participants were able to correctly assign age labels to body odors originating from old-age donors, but not to body odors originating from other age groups.But George Preti, a 74-year-old analytical organic chemist, says his studies did not match the results found by either the Japanese group or Dr. Lundstroms team. Dr. Pretis team used upper back and forearm samples and submitted them to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, concluding that no method of analysis revealed the presence of 2-nonenal in older subjects.Old people actually smell less than younger ones, Dr. Preti said. Unless you go to a nursing home, where there are hygiene issues in the mix, youre not going to find this musty, unpleasant odor everyone is talking about.The scientists do agree that people with chronic diseases are more likely to give off odor no matter what their age, according to Bauer. Dr. Preti attributed this more to diet, metabolism, and self-care. Dr. Lundstrom credited the possibility which he is in the process of investigating that ongoing inflammation leads to odorous cell decay.Tips to Keep Things FreshRegardless of what causes scents around older adults and their homes, experts do agree that there are ways to keep aging adults and their houses smelling fresh.Keep fresh air flowing through the house.Open windows periodically to let clean air in. Good ventilation can help prevent stale air from hanging around a house.Clean the House.Check the home for spoiled or expired food and ensure bedding is regularly washed. Wash clothing after each wearing and air out shoes. Use these tips to keep a senior's house clean and address hoarding if that's an issue. Practice good bodily and dental hygiene.Floss and brush teeth, gums, and tongue daily, and follow guidelines for proper denture care. Make sure that bathing is happening several times a week. Encourage sponge baths on those days when a full shower isn't scheduled. Hydrate.Drinking plenty of water can help cleanse the body of odor. Refresh and repack old items.Old clothing and paper can carry a musty smell. Wash clothing, then store between dryer sheets. Put dried lavender in breathable cotton or linen bags and add them to storage containers. Set an open box of baking soda on closet floors or hang a bag of cedar chops in closets. It may be difficult for some older adults to follow the healthy routines mentioned above if they are dealing with illness or other issues. Know the signs that an aging adult may need more help around the house.
Village at Belmar is a locally owned and operated community designed to provide an unparalleled lifestyle experience for seniors. Our innovative Village boasts enticing Independent Flats, innovative Assisted Living suites and a charming memory care with private suites, all dedicated to embracing dignity and respect, through wellness-based activities, in a pampered, caring place to call home. We call this philosophy Meaningful Connections TM. It is truly our passion and privilege to provide an elevated quality of life for those we serve through meaningful connections with residents, families, associates and quality care for our residents. With 24 hours of nursing daily, we are able to offer a higher level of care- including diabetic management.
Village at Belmar is a locally owned and operated community designed to provide an unparalleled lifestyle experience for seniors. Our innovative Village boasts enticing Independent Flats, innovative Assisted Living suites and a charming memory care with private suites, all dedicated to embracing dignity and respect, through wellness-based activities, in a pampered, caring place to call home. We call this philosophy Meaningful Connections TM. It is truly our passion and privilege to provide an elevated quality of life for those we serve through meaningful connections with residents, families, associates while providing quality care for our residents. With 24 hours of nursing daily, we are able to provide a much higher quality of care- including diabetic management.
Village at Belmar is a locally owned and operated community designed to provide an unparalleled lifestyle experience for seniors. Our innovative Village boasts enticing Independent Flats, innovative Assisted Living suites and a charming memory care with private suites, all dedicated to embracing dignity and respect, through wellness-based activities, in a pampered, caring place to call home. We call this philosophy Meaningful Connections TM. It is truly our passion and privilege to provide an elevated quality of life for those we serve through meaningful connections with residents, families, associates while providing quality care for our residents. With 24 hours of nursing daily, we are able to provide a much higher quality of care- including diabetic management.