Let's Get Heart Smart: How To Practice Health to Your Heart's Content
The Windsor of Venice
Apr 01, 2022
Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties
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By the time you read this, the reported deaths from COVID-19 and its variants in the U.S. will be close to 900,000. As staggering as that statistic is, its 400,000 short of the number of Americans killed by Heart Disease in the same time period. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women of most racial and ethnic groups.
Lets not allow the topic to overwhelm the fact there's a miracle inside your chest. Weighing about as much as a grapefruit, the heart is a powerful pump that drives five to six quarts of blood to every microscopic part of your body every second. And if it fails for even a second, the body is very unforgiving. Even though its the one piece of machinery driven by the brain, we tend to treat the heart like a kitchen appliance that we take for granted. Rarely serviced, rarely cleaned, and overworked until it burns out. Although heart bypass and transplant have become routine since the pioneering operations in the 1960s, its not like replacing the coffee maker you neglected too long.
One Thing at a Time
The better way to treat your heart with the respect it deserves is to start with changing just small habits. That way, you'll avoid the relapse from trying to change everything at once and falling back to unhealthy heart habits inside of a month. The most obvious: if youre a smoker or heavy drinker, work on that first. Imagine a small team of remodelers arriving at your heart to do a makeover. The first thing they're going to say is, Well, we cant do anything with the plumbing until we clear the smoke.
Look for Help During Heart Month
Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol is never easy, but this is probably as good a time as any during the year to start a cessation program with help. February is American Heart Month, so you're likely to be reminded frequently of heart health and offered tips on modifying your routine to help your heart and prolong a happy life. If you only look to one place, trust the American Heart Association www.heart.org.
Prediabetes and Heart Disease
What's your blood sugar level? If you don't know, you should find out from your doctor if you're not already monitoring it yourself. You could be pre-diabetic without knowing it or showing any symptoms. There's a good chance you could avoid becoming diabetic and reverse your pre-diabetic blood sugar to normal with relatively little change to your diet and a slight increase in
your activity. Diabetes has long been linked to heart disease, but recent studies suggest that reversing prediabetes is also linked to fewer heart attacks and strokes. [Reversing Prediabetes linked to fewer heart attacks, strokes, heart.org, Jan. 26, 2021.]
While you're at it, get your cholesterol tested and routinely monitor your blood pressure.
If your'e worried you might be at risk for heart disease, ask your doctor to perform a simple cholesterol test to let you know if you're at risk and should adjust your diet. Home blood pressure monitors are not expensive, they're digital, and they're easy to use. Blood pressure stations are common in supermarkets now, and you can also check your weight and pulse.
Women's Heart Health
Why the emphasis on women's heart health? The American Heart Association tells us that cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year about one woman every minute. They devote an entire website to womens heart health: Go Red for Women (www.goredforwomen.org). Here are just a few of the common misconceptions about womens heart health:
Myth: Heart disease is for men, and cancer is the real threat for women
Fact :Heart disease is a killer that strikes more women than men and is more deadly than all cancer forms combined. While one in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year, heart disease is the cause of one out of every three deaths.
Myth: Heart disease is for old people
Fact: Heart disease affects women of all ages. For younger women, the combination of birth control pills and smoking boosts heart disease risks by 20 percent. Heart defects are more common than you might think: 1.3 million Americans alive today have some form of congenital heart defect and at least nine of every 1,000 infants born each year have a heart defect. Even if you live a completely healthy lifestyle, being born with an underlying heart condition can be a risk factor.
Myth: I run marathons no way I could be at risk.
Fact: Factors like cholesterol, eating habits, and smoking can counterbalance your other healthy habits. You can be thin and have high cholesterol. The American Heart Association says to start getting your cholesterol checked at age 20. Earlier, if your family has a history of heart disease.
Age and Heart Health
Many things, like wine and most people, grow better with age. The heart, however, takes more tending than a glass of fine wine. Avoid things that weaken your heart beyond the normal aging process. These are the usual suspects: smoking and tobacco use, lack of exercise, diet, alcohol, overeating, and stress. Some preexisting conditions you cant control: irregular heartbeat, congenital (inherited) heart defects, sleep apnea (although this may be a product of obesity or alcohol consumption).
Viruses and Myocarditis
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle mostly caused by a virus, including COVID-19, and can lead to left-sided heart failure. The left ventricle of the heart is the part that pumps oxygen-rich blood back to the body. This valve tends to stiffen with age. Thats one of the many reasons why age combined with a preexisting condition puts you at greater risk of death from COVID-19. Even survivors of the novel coronavirus infection can sustain permanent heart damage. All people must protect themselves and others from COVID-19 by observing precautions, not just because of its immediate lethality but also because of its impact on the heart, known and unknown.
How to Start with Your Heart
The factors involved in heart health and the onset of heart disease are many, varied, and complicated. But the common preventions (listed here, from the Mayo Clinic) are simple. You probably already know them by heart, so to speak:
Not smoking
Controlling certain conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes
Staying physically active
Eating healthy foods
Maintaining a healthy weight
Reducing and managing stress
Those may seem like six significant challenges, especially if you take on all six. But you should notice something else about them. Almost every one of them can affect the other five. So, if you pick one, you'll find it easier to take on the next one. People who quit smoking usually discover that they have more energy within the first week, and exercise becomes easier. A little exercise and switching out one unhealthy food will help with weight, stress, blood pressure, and diabetes. Easy does it, especially if you're 65 and older. You've spent a whole life learning one way. You can take your time. Learn to enjoy your healthier heart. But start today.
First, Get a Checkup!
Most of the questions this article has raised in your mind (What's my blood sugar level? What's my blood pressure? I used to smoke am I at risk?) can all be answered in a single doctors visit with simple lab work done a few days before. Schedule it now, before you start a program of exercise and diet. And schedule a regular exam per your doctors recommendation. Relieving the stress of not knowing will be a good start on your way to a healthier heart.
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Practical Steps to Minimize Bathroom Hazards for Seniors
As we age, the bathroom can become one of the most hazardous rooms in the house. Wet floors, slippery surfaces, and limited space can lead to falls, which are a significant concern for seniors. According to the CDC, one in four adults over 65 falls each year, and many of these accidents occur in the bathroom. Fortunately, with a few simple modifications and some proactive planning, fall-proofing a bathroom can greatly reduce the risk of injury and promote independence.Whether youre a senior wanting more peace of mind or a caregiver looking out for a loved one, ComForCare is here to help every step of the way. Our team understands that bathroom safety is about more than just preventing falls; its about preserving independence, dignity, and the freedom to feel comfortable in your own space. With our in-home care services, were committed to making homes safer and supporting families in creating spaces that are both practical and inviting. From assessing fall risks to providing friendly, reliable assistance, ComForCare is dedicated to helping seniors feel confident in every room, every day.The Importance of Bathroom Safety For SeniorsAs we age, our bodies become more vulnerablebones lose density, making fractures more likely, and the healing process slows significantly. According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries in older adults, with one in five falls resulting in serious injury, such as a broken hip or head trauma. A broken hip, for example, can take months to heal and often requires surgery, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.Beyond physical injury, a fall can lead to prolonged hospital stays, decreased independence, and a fear of falling again. This can quickly lead to further isolation and inactivity, compounding the health challenges seniors already face. Getting older shouldnt result in fears and over-cautious movements. It should be a time of enjoyment. By creating safer bathroom environments, we can reduce risks, protect health, and allow seniors to continue living independently.Transform Your Bathroom into a Senior-Friendly SpaceMake Room for Easy MobilityKeeping the bathroom floor free of obstacles is a must. Even small things like bath mats, towels, and stray clothes can quickly turn into tripping hazards. The key is to make sure everything has its place and to store essentialslike soap, shampoo, and towelswithin easy reach. Think waist to shoulder height; this minimizes the need for bending or stretching, which can throw off balance.Additionally, make sure theres plenty of space to move around freely. This might involve rearranging some items, opting for wall-mounted storage solutions, or even widening the doorway to make maneuvering easier.Slip-Proof the BathroomLets face itslippery surfaces are one of the biggest threats in any bathroom. Whether its stepping out of the shower or reaching for a towel, the risk of slipping is real, especially for seniors. But dont worry; there are a few easy adjustments you can make to keep those floors safe and dry.Non-slip mats are essential: Place these inside and outside the shower or tub to give your feet extra grip. Opt for mats with rubber backing to keep them securely in place. Dry floors quickly: To eliminate potential hazards, like pools of water, encourage your loved one to dry the floor immediately after bathing or showering.Wear non-slip footwear: Theres no shame in the water shoe game. Rubber-soled slippers or water shoes can provide extra grip and help seniors feel more secure moving about in the shower or bathroom.Brighten Up the Bathroom LightingA well-lit bathroom can make all the difference, not just for morning routines but also for safety. Dim or shadowy areas make it hard to spot potential tripping hazards, especially on those half-awake nighttime trips. Its such an easy fix, and it can bring a huge sense of comfort knowing everything is clearly visible.To get started, aim for bright, even lighting throughout the bathroom. Overhead lights are a must, but adding some around the mirror or vanity can help reduce shadows. And if you want to make it even simpler, motion-sensor lights are a fantastic additiontheyll turn on as soon as someone enters the room, taking away the guesswork, especially late at night. Dont forget about the hallway! A few nightlights along the path to the bathroom can light the way without having to fumble in the dark.Install Support Systems for Steady BalanceNavigating the bathroom means lots of different movementssitting, standing, reaching, and sometimes a bit of balancing on slippery surfaces. A few thoughtful adjustments can turn the bathroom into a safe haven, reducing any worries about slipping or tripping.Install grab bars around key areas to offer extra support.Switch to lever handles on faucets; theyre much friendlier for arthritis.Consider a raised toilet seat or frame to make sitting and standing easier.Add a shower chair or transfer bench for stable support during showers.Additionally, if youre interested in converting your current bathroom into a senior-friendly area, walk-in showers or low-threshold tubs make it easier to get in and out. While this would require an extensive budget to renovate, you or a loved one will no longer have to stress about stepping over high ledges to bathe, making this an investment that eases peace of mind.Keep Water Temperatures ComfortableFalls may be the biggest concern, but water temperatures can be a sneaky safety risk in the bathroom, too. If youve ever accidentally entered a shower thats too cold or too hot, you know how quickly you pull backoften with a sudden jerk that could easily lead to a slip. For seniors, slower reaction times or reduced sensitivity to heat can make it even trickier, increasing the risk of burns.Installing anti-scald devices on faucets and showers keeps water temperatures safely below 120, so theres no risk of scalding. Lowering the water heater setting is also an easy fix that guarantees comfort across the board. And for simplicity, single-handle faucets let seniors adjust the water to a comfortable temperature without juggling separate hot and cold handles.Always Plan AheadEven with every precaution, accidents can still happen, so having a few emergency measures in place is always a good idea.Emergency Call Systems: Install an emergency pull cord or wall-mounted call button for quick assistance in case of a fall. Wearable alert devices, like a pendant or bracelet, are also reliable forms of backup.Smart Technology: Voice-activated assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home, enable seniors to adjust lights, make calls, or play musicall without needing to move. This can be particularly useful if a fall occurs and they have no way of getting up to call for help.Accessible First-Aid Kit: Keep a first-aid kit in an easy-to-reach spot for fast access to basic medical supplies.ComForCare: Your Fall Risk Management ExpertsTaking steps to prevent falls at home can be a big relief for everyone involved. ComForCare is here to help with a free guide on reducing fall risks, packed with practical tips and advice you can start using today! If that werent enough, our in-home caregivers bring comfort and confidence to families, helping seniors bathe and move safely while keeping their independence intactall from the comfort of home. With ComForCare, your loved one can enjoy the security of a familiar space and the peace of mind that comes from having an extra, caring hand nearby.Fall-Risk AssessmentAt ComForCare, we make fall prevention simple and thorough. Our Fall Risk Screening takes a closer look at everything that could impact your loved ones safety, whether youre planning ahead or responding to a recent fall. This personalized assessment means no guessworkjust peace of mind knowing every factor is covered. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most: quality time with your loved one in a safer home environment. Call us at (800) 886-4044 today to get started.Find an In-Home Caregiver Near You to Prevent Falls & More!We believe safety in the bathroom is just as important as comfort. Our caregivers go beyond basic assistance, offering compassionate, personalized care that helps seniors stay safe and confident in every part of their home. From preventing slippery situations to offering a steady hand, our caregivers are here to make a difference. Find your nearest ComForCare location online or call us anytime to learn how we can support your loved ones independence right where it matters most.
The Basics of Long-Term Care Insurance
Planning for the future involves more than just saving some cash here and there for a rainy day. Life is unpredictable, and if we want to help our loved ones face their golden years with peace of mind, its important to be aware of how specific costs will affect our budgets. One important cost is long-term carethe support that will enable you or your loved one to meet daily needs and perform regular activities. But long-term care services can cost anywhere between $2,000 to $10,000 per month, and often, health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid do not cover these expenses. Thats where long-term care insurance comes in. ComForCare is here to help you learn more about long-term care insurance and how it can benefit you and your family. We can help you better understand your policy and file claims, alleviating your anxiety as you plan for the future. What is Long-Term Care Insurance?Despite what wed all like to hope for, long-term care needs generally cant be avoided, and well all need assistance in one way or another as we age. Thankfully, long-term care insurance offers an option to help cover the costs that will support you or your loved ones ability to live life to the fullest. This type of insurance policy reimburses policyholders for services that assist with daily living activities, like: BathingDressingMeal preparation HousekeepingOther Non-Medical ServicesWhile your care and coverage needs may vary, for the most part, these benefits can relieve the financial burden that comes with chronic illness or simply needing extra help as you age, even if you are in good health. Many major insurance companies and employers offer long-term care coverage as a benefit. ComForCare can help you work with these companies to find the right coverage to meet your current and future care needs. What Does Long-Term Insurance Pay For?Many middle-class families find themselves in a tough spot when considering options for meeting long-term care needs. They earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but not enough to comfortably afford to pay for care out of pocket. Long-term care insurance exists to fill that gap and cover non-medical care-related costs. It can be used to pay for:In-Home CareAssisted Living FacilitiesNursing HomesMemory Care Regardless of the type of care you or your loved one may require, long-term care insurance is a great tool to help fund care and protect your savings. Without this type of coverage, your care expenses must be paid out of pocket or through Medicaid if you qualify.What to Consider When Shopping for Long-Term Care Insurance If you dont already have a policy, now is a good time to ask yourself how you plan to cover future long-term care costs and begin exploring your options. Buying coverage before your health changes gives you more options when you do need care. When shopping for long-term care insurance, its important to consider key factors like: Coverage level or benefit amountHow long the benefits lastThe elimination period before coverage kicks in Cost of the policyCost-Benefit AnalysisThe cost and benefits of insurance policies vary, just like those associated with long-term care itself. Since long-term care insurance policies can be complicated, its helpful to work with a professionallike a ComForCare Home Care expertto ensure youre getting the most out of your benefits. Contact us today for assistance. How ComForCare Makes The Claims Process EasierFiling a long-term care insurance claim can be complicated and overwhelming. Thats why working with a professional, like those at ComForCare, can make all the difference. We can help you understand your policy, including terms like elimination period, maximum daily benefit, and inflation protection. Plus, well assist with the paperwork and even handle billing directly with your insurance company so you can focus on your health and personal needs. If youre ready to learn more about the claims process for long-term care insurance or file a claim on an existing policy, reach out to the ComForCare team today!Get the Coverage You Need for Your Long-Term CareAccording to the ACL, at least 70% of people turning 65 today will need some type of long-term care in their lifetime. Even if they do not currently require long-term care, many older adults already have substantial care needs that family and friends alone cant meet. Getting the benefits theyre entitled to from their insurance can sometimes be a challenge, but ComForCare is here to help. If youre an older adult who needs help navigating their long-term care policy, you dont have to go through the process alone. We can guide you through the process of understanding your policy, filing claims, and ensuring you receive your benefits as quickly as possible. Call us at (800) 886-4044 or find the ComForCare location closest to you today to get started.Maximize Your Long-Term Care Insurance BenefitsSince navigating long-term care insurance can be tricky, its a good idea to seek the advice of a professional to ensure youre maximizing your benefits. Whether you need help understanding the terms of your policy or filing a claim, ComForCare is here to support you every step of the way. If youre ready to learn more or file a claim, reach out to our team today! You can call us at (800) 886-4044 or find your nearest ComForCare location online.
Why Aging in Place is So Important for Seniors
Over the past two decades, interest in the concept of aging in place has steadily increased. More people searched for age-in-place home care in 2024 than any year previously by almost double. This is because more Baby Boomers are beginning to require help to stay safe, healthy, and connected as they agebut they dont want to move into senior living communities.We know that a strong majority of older adults would prefer to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible. But theres more to aging in place than preference alonescience tells us that its better for overall quality of life, too. Lets take a deep dive into the reasons why aging in place is so important for older adults.Everything You Need to Know About Aging in PlaceWhat is Aging in Place?Aging in place means continuing to live in your established home and community as you grow older. Instead of moving into an assisted living facility or retirement community, you simply stay where youre most comfortable and familiar. It sounds simple enough, but for many older adults, maintaining their preferred living environment comes with a host of challenges, including:Home Safety Mobility Issues & Managing Chronic Health ConditionsSocial IsolationWell talk about how to overcome each of these challenges in more detail below. But first, lets talk about why theyre worth overcoming in the first place.Why is Aging in Place Important? Aging in place offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits for older adults.Physical Health BenefitsWhile home safety can be a challenge, studies show that aging in place can lead to better physical health outcomes, including reduced hospitalizations and improved functional ability. There are a few reasons behind this trend.First, when people are familiar with their surroundings, theyre less likely to fall. Falls are a major health concern for older adults, causing up to 1 million hospitalizations annually. Serious injuries that result from falls are also associated with further decreased mobilitymaking it harder for adults to stay physically active.In addition, staying at home can keep stress and anxiety levels lower than going through the major transition of moving into a senior community. Lower stress can reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and more!Emotional & Mental Health BenefitsSpeaking of stressaging in place has a multitude of mental health benefits as well. Perhaps chief among them is a preserved sense of independence, control, and dignity. When people feel empowered to maintain control over their lives and make their own decisions, they have a stronger sense of identity and purpose. These things are crucial for maintaining a positive outlook and engagement in life.While plenty of people do choose retirement communities for the social benefits, its also important to consider the community connections people already have where they currently live. Removing someone from an established neighborhood can have detrimental effects. By making home a safe place to live, older people can stay woven into the fabric of the communities they know and love.Challenges & The Role of In-Home CareOftentimes, family members of aging adults think that moving their loved ones into a senior living community is the only option available for a comprehensive care plan. After all, their loved one may live alone, have health or mobility challenges, or face other barriers. However, with the help of in-home care, senior citizens dont have to choose between safety and comfort.Creating & Maintaining a Safe Home EnvironmentOne of the first signs that your loved one may need help around the home is reduced mobility or a recent fall. Loose rugs, steep stairs, poorly lit kitchen counters, and slippery bathroom tiles are all features of homes we tend not to think about until they become hazardous.Many homes lack items like grab bars, entryway enhancements, and kitchen upgrades. Older adults and their family members may not know which home modifications are necessary for their safety. Thankfully, the caregivers at ComForCare can provide an in-home safety assessment that highlights all areas of concern. Were happy to help you discover the best way to make your loved ones home environment a place they can thrive.Ready to get started on your own? Download our FREE guide on how to reduce fall risks at home!Managing Chronic Health ConditionsChronic conditions and age-related illnesses can limit independence and a persons ability to perform daily activities. These may include age-related mobility challenges that make it difficult to perform daily tasks like climbing stairs, bathing, or cooking. Loved ones with dementia may have cognitive challenges that can make it difficult to manage medications, keep up with finances, or remember important appointments.Can a dementia patient be cared for at home?What many families dont know is that in-home dementia care is associated with improved outcomes. Familiar environments have a positive impact on cognitive function, including memory and problem-solving skills. And because they reduce anxiety, they can also reduce agitation and challenging behaviors associated with Alzheimers disease and dementia.People with dementia thrive most with regular daily routines and familiar surroundings. In fact, taking dementia patients out of their environment for the long term can have serious consequences on their well-being, increasing the risk of:AnxietyConfusionDisorientation and wandering behaviors Agitation and behavioral outburstsDelusionsFallsSocial IsolationAs social circles shrink and mobility decreases, older adults may experience feelings of isolation. Maintaining social relationships and participating in activities to combat loneliness becomes ever more important for both physical and cognitive health. While the risk of isolation increases when a person lives alone, in-home care can keep them connected to the community they know and love.ComForCares in-home caregivers offer transportation services to help clients maintain their established social interactions. Plus, because each caregiver is matched to their clients based on shared personality and interests, they develop meaningful relationships with the people in their care. Let ComForCare Help Your Loved One Age in Place SafelyThe challenges and concerns that go along with aging arent insurmountable. With the right help, it is possible to live a safe and healthy life in the comfort of home. To see if your home is ready to safely enjoy your golden years, create your personalized Aging in Place checklist with ComForCare!At ComForCare, were passionate about helping more people remain independent, providing help with personal care, transportation, health and nutrition, and so much more. Need help making sure your loved ones preferences are met? Find your perfect caregiver today!Choose ComForCare: Your Aging in Place SpecialistsComForCare is nationally recognized for compassionate, high-quality caregiving services. Were proud to connect older adults with the precise amount of care they need. Whether your loved one needs assistance a few times a week or around the clock, we have a caregiver ready to meet their needs.
Local Services By This Author
The Windsor of Venice
Memory Care 1600 Center Rd., Venice, Florida, 34292The Windsor of Venice offers a comprehensive approach to senior living, with specialized services tailored to meet the needs of residents in both memory care and assisted living. The focus on personal preferences and abilities ensures that each resident receives individualized care and support.The range of amenities, including an onsite salon and spa, fitness center, and outdoor courtyard with lush landscaping, promotes both relaxation and socialization. These spaces are designed to enhance residents' quality of life and encourage engagement with their surroundings.Attention to detail in the design of the residence, such as natural lighting, low-pile carpeting, and intentional color selection, reflects a commitment to creating a safe and accessible environment for residents. By reducing the risk of falls and promoting confidence in movement, residents can enjoy greater independence and peace of mind.Overall, The Windsor of Venice strives to provide a welcoming and supportive home where residents can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling senior living experience.
The Windsor of Venice
Assisted Living 1600 Center Rd., Venice, Florida, 34292The Windsor of Venice in Venice, FL, offers a nurturing and empowering environment for residents in assisted living. The emphasis on balancing independence with support reflects a commitment to promoting residents' autonomy and well-being. With caregivers available to assist with personal care tasks and household chores, residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their needs are taken care of while still maintaining a sense of independence. The focus on removing maintenance tasks allows residents to focus on what truly matters to them, whether it's building friendships, exploring new opportunities, or engaging in activities they love. The thoughtful design of the residence encourages socialization and connection, providing plenty of spaces for residents to interact and participate in a variety of activities. The busy event and program calendar ensures that there's always something exciting happening, catering to residents' diverse interests and preferences. Dining at The Windsor of Venice appears to be a highlight, not only offering delicious meals but also creating opportunities for socializing and forging lasting memories. The Gold Leaf Dining program enhances the dining experience, providing comforting and seasonal culinary delights that add to the overall enjoyment of residents' lives. Overall, The Windsor of Venice seems to offer a supportive and enriching environment where residents can thrive, make meaningful connections, and enjoy a vibrant senior living experience. It's clear that the community prioritizes residents' well-being and happiness, fostering a sense of belonging and fulfillment.