Let's Get Heart Smart: How To Practice Health to Your Heart's Content
LEGEND SENIOR LIVING
For more information about the author, click to view their website: https://legendseniorliving.com/
Nov 25, 2024
Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area
Let’s Get Heart Smart – February Is American Heart Month
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, it’s 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.
Let’s 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 it’s 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, it’s 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 you’re 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 can’t 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 you’re 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 women’s heart health: Go Red for Women (www.goredforwomen.org). Here are just a few of the common misconceptions about women’s 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 can’t 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. That’s 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 doctor’s 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 doctor’s recommendation. Relieving the stress of not knowing will be a good start on your way to a healthier heart.
- To view the original version of this article visit legendseniorliving.com/helpful-resources/news/senior-health/how-to-practice-health-to-your-hearts-content-1.html
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
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Memory Care 900 Lincoln Club Dr, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15237Compassionate Memory Care at Hemsley House of McCandlessNavigating the journey of memory loss is deeply personal and often emotional, for both the individual and their loved ones. Thats why finding the right Memory Care community is more than just a decision about care; its a decision about trust, dignity, and everyday quality of life. Hemsley House of McCandless offers a deeply thoughtful and compassionate approach to Memory Care, providing a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for seniors living with Alzheimers disease or other forms of dementia.At Hemsley House, Memory Care is built around a foundation of respect, personalization, and meaningful connection. It begins with recognizing that no two journeys with dementia are alike. Each resident brings their own life story, personality, preferences, and needs, and those are honored every single day. Care plans are customized to provide the support each person needs while encouraging a sense of purpose and routine that helps residents thrive.Whole-Person Care with Heart and PurposeDaily life in the Memory Care neighborhood is centered around comfort and familiarity. The secure environment offers peace of mind for families and a calming structure for residents. Private and semi-private suites are warm, inviting, and thoughtfully designed with both independence and safety in mind. Residents are free to enjoy welcoming shared spaces that promote relaxation, socialization, and exploration without worry.What truly sets Hemsley House apart is its dedicated caregiving team. These professionals are more than trained, they are compassionate, attentive individuals who truly understand the needs of those living with memory loss. Their approach goes beyond clinical care. Its about forming meaningful connections, honoring each residents life journey, and being fully present in every interaction. Whether its a shared smile, a favorite song, or simply sitting together in quiet companionship, these moments of connection make all the difference.Programming and activities at Hemsley House are designed specifically for Memory Care residents. Each day brings structured opportunities for engagement, from music and art therapy to guided fitness, brain-boosting games, storytelling, gardening, and more. These programs support cognitive stimulation, emotional well-being, and a sense of identity, encouraging residents to continue participating in life in a way that feels authentic and joyful.Nutrition and dining are also thoughtfully handled. Residents enjoy delicious, balanced meals prepared with their health and preferences in mind. Dining is both a nourishing and social experience, where residents can sit among familiar faces in an atmosphere that encourages dignity and comfort. The consistent mealtime routines also play a vital role in helping residents feel secure and oriented.Peace of Mind for FamiliesEqually important is the relationship Hemsley House fosters with families. When a loved one is experiencing memory loss, families often carry emotional weight, uncertainty, and many questions. This community walks alongside them, offering clear communication, emotional support, and a true partnership in care. Families are welcomed in, supported, and empowered with information and reassurance every step of the way.Safety and structure are built into every corner of Hemsley Houses Memory Care environment. From thoughtfully planned layouts that minimize confusion to attentive, around-the-clock care, residents benefit from an environment designed to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of peace. Families can rest easy knowing that their loved one is not only cared for but genuinely understood and valued.Memory Care at Hemsley House of McCandless is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its a compassionate, personalized approach that respects the individuality of each resident. The goal is simple: to create a life worth living, each and every day, for those facing the challenges of dementia. Through a blend of heartfelt caregiving, enriching daily activities, safety-focused design, and unwavering respect, Hemsley House becomes a place where residents can still experience joy, connection, and belonging.Schedule a VisitFor those searching for a Memory Care option that truly prioritizes emotional well-being, family involvement, and person-centered care, Hemsley House of McCandless offers a warm and welcoming place to call home. This is where compassionate support meets purposeful living, and where your loved one can continue to write their story with dignity, comfort, and peace.Contact us to schedule a personal tour today.
Ridgecrest of McCandless
Memory Care 8870 Duncan Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15237Memory Care at Ridgecrest of McCandless: Compassionate Support in a Vibrant CommunityNavigating the journey of memory loss is deeply personal and often emotional, for both the individual and their loved ones. Thats why finding the right Memory Care community is more than just a decision about care; its a decision about trust, dignity, and everyday quality of life. In McCandless, Pennsylvania, Ridgecrest of McCandless offers a deeply thoughtful and compassionate approach to Memory Care, providing a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for seniors living with Alzheimers disease or other forms of dementia.At Ridgecrest, Memory Care is built around a foundation of respect, personalization, and meaningful connection. It begins with recognizing that no two journeys with dementia are alike. Each resident brings their own life story, personality, preferences, and needs, and those are honored every single day. Care plans are customized to provide the support each person needs while encouraging a sense of purpose and routine that helps residents thrive.Whole-Person Care with Heart and PurposeDaily life in the Memory Care neighborhood is centered around comfort and familiarity. The secure environment offers peace of mind for families and a calming structure for residents. Private and semi-private suites are warm, inviting, and thoughtfully designed with both independence and safety in mind. Residents are free to enjoy welcoming shared spaces that promote relaxation, socialization, and exploration without worry.What truly sets Ridgecrest apart is its dedicated caregiving team. These professionals are more than trained. They are compassionate, attentive individuals who truly understand the needs of those living with memory loss. Their approach goes beyond clinical care. Its about forming meaningful connections, honoring each residents life journey, and being fully present in every interaction. Whether its a shared smile, a favorite song, or simply sitting together in quiet companionship, these moments of connection make all the difference.Programming and activities at Ridgecrest are designed specifically for Memory Care residents. Each day brings structured opportunities for engagement, from music and art therapy to guided fitness, brain-boosting games, storytelling, gardening, and more. These programs support cognitive stimulation, emotional well-being, and a sense of identity, encouraging residents to continue participating in life in a way that feels authentic and joyful.Nutrition and dining are also thoughtfully handled. Residents enjoy delicious, balanced meals prepared with their health and preferences in mind. Dining is both a nourishing and social experience, where residents can sit among familiar faces in an atmosphere that encourages dignity and comfort. The consistent mealtime routines also play a vital role in helping residents feel secure and oriented.Peace of Mind for FamiliesEqually important is the relationship Ridgecrest fosters with families. When a loved one is experiencing memory loss, families often carry emotional weight, uncertainty, and many questions. This community walks alongside them, offering clear communication, emotional support, and a true partnership in care. Families are welcomed in, supported, and empowered with information and reassurance every step of the way.Safety and structure are built into every corner of Ridgecrests Memory Care environment. From thoughtfully planned layouts that minimize confusion to attentive, around-the-clock care, residents benefit from an environment designed to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of peace. Families can rest easy knowing that their loved one is not only cared for but genuinely understood and valued.Memory Care at Ridgecrest of McCandless is not a one-size-fits-all solution, its a compassionate, personalized approach that respects the individuality of each resident. The goal is simple: to create a life worth living, each and every day, for those facing the challenges of dementia. Through a blend of heartfelt caregiving, enriching daily activities, safety-focused design, and unwavering respect, Ridgecrest becomes a place where residents can still experience joy, connection, and belonging.Schedule a VisitFor those searching for a Memory Care option that truly prioritizes emotional well-being, family involvement, and person-centered care, Ridgecrest of McCandless offers a warm and welcoming place to call home. This is where compassionate support meets purposeful living, and where your loved one can continue to write their story with dignity, comfort, and peace.Contact us to schedule a personal tour today.