Women and Heart Disease

Lets talk PATHWAYS:  Personalized Support for Those Experiencing Cognitive DeclineDecember 5, 2024 By CC Young StaffThis time of year is filled with gatherings, which means you may be spending more quality time with your family members, particularly your parents and older relatives. While time spent together is a blessing, it can also highlight changes brought on by aging. If you believe someone you love is experiencing mild cognitive decline, there are options for keeping them safe while maintaining their independence and quality of life.This year, CC Young Senior Living in Dallas launched the Personal Assistance Toward Health and Wellness As You Succeed (PATHWAYS) program. Designed to serve as a bridge between Assisted Living and Memory Support, PATHWAYS provides extra support and structure in an intimate, small-group setting.We sat down with Nena Paris, CC Youngs Administrator, Assisted Living and Memory Support, to better understand the PATHWAYS program and who can benefit from it. Here are seven takeaways.PATHWAYS was created to fill a need between Assisted Living and Memory Support. The program came about because, often, Memory Support units can have long waitlists and fill up quickly. Truthfully, sometimes people with cognitive impairment dont necessarily need full Memory Support, as theyre not at risk of eloping, or leaving the community without supervision. CC Young has recognized that theres this middle group people who need a little more guided assistance and structure with their daily activities but are not qualified for full-blown Memory Support.PATHWAYS can actually slow cognitive decline. Research has shown that a guided program like PATHWAYS can in fact slow cognitive decline and help people stay engaged. Our program does this by providing residents with personal interaction, along with physical and emotional support, as a way to enhance their overall wellness and quality of life in a positive environment.PATHWAYS promotes resident wellness. At CC Young, we focus on whole-person wellness, using the 7 Pillars of Wellness as defined by the International Council on Active Aging: physical, social, spiritual, intellectual, emotional, vocational, and environmental wellness. Thats also the backbone of the PATHWAYS program, which promotes active aging regardless of cognitive issues. From these pillars, we have designed a comprehensive therapeutic program to support the needs of those with mild cognitive impairment in a joyful, engaging environment.PATHWAYS offers an intimate caregiver-to-resident ratio. Part of what makes PATHWAYS so successful is that the CC Young staff works closely with residents, which means the staff will notice any cognitive changes. In fact, at 1 caregiver to 7 people, the caregiver-to-resident ratio in PATHWAYS is better than both Assisted Living and Memory Support, which are 1 to 25 and 1 to 10, respectively. That also results in PATHWAYS residents becoming like family, as the staff truly gets to know them.PATHWAYS is not just for CC Young residents. Its true anyone from the Dallas community who has a need for the program can become a PATHWAYS resident. Upon entering the PATHWAYS program, your family member would also become an Assisted Living resident in The Hillside at CC Young.PATHWAYS is a less stressful transition for both family members and residents. It can certainly be stressful for families to face the decision of whether or not their family member should enter Memory Support. PATHWAYS offers a comforting solution for both them and their loved ones, as it lessens the pressure of deciding whether full Memory Support is needed now. The PATHWAYS resident may be able to live out their days in the PATHWAYS program or eventually transition to Memory Support, if the need arises.PATHWAYS keeps residents engaged and prevents isolation. To keep PATHWAYS residents engaged, the program takes an active and intentional approach to life enrichment activities, which includes participating in activities on the Assisted Living calendar as well as a specialized PATHWAYS calendar. The biggest differentiator for PATHWAYS is that a dedicated support staff member helps residents plan their day and escorts them to the activities. Since we purposely guide residents to keep them engaged, they are able to remain active and enjoy a better quality of life, while also avoiding any isolation that can be a symptom of cognitive decline.PATHWAYS is just one more service that CC Young offers current and prospective residents and their families. When we noticed an increase of older adults experiencing various levels of cognitive decline but not necessarily to the level of needing Memory Support we wanted to do something about it. We put our heads together and created a solution: PATHWAYS.If you are noticing cognitive decline in someone you love, we encourage you to have a conversation to express what youre observing. Talking to your primary care physician is a good place to start. CC Young is also happy to provide information, so feel free to give us a call at 214-305-9662.

Its American Heart Month, so theres no better time for a distinguishing guide of heart attacks VS heartburn. It's natural to feel concerned when experiencing chest discomfort but understanding the difference between conditions can provide peace of mind.Some of our expert caregivers provided crucial insight around the matter, and their practical advice will help navigate your heart health journey."Doctors see an increase in the number of heart attacks during the winter season, said William Daines, MD at Intermountain Medical Center. Similarly, heartburn rates go up this time of year, in part due to overindulgence of comfort foods, late eating, and increased alcohol intake."By learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of each condition, you can take the appropriate steps to address your concerns and, if needed, seek medical care."Although heartburn and heart attack symptoms can share similarities, it is important to recognize the difference, said Kirstin Hesterberg, DO, an Intermountain Health cardiologist in Denver, Colorado.Heartburn signs and symptomsHeartburn often feels like a burning sensation in your chest that can move up to your throat. And despite its name, it has nothing to do with your heart. Its caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus."Indigestion generally causes temporary chest discomfort or burning anywhere from the upper abdomen to the throat, said Dr. Daines. Heartburn usually hits after eating spicy, fatty, or greasy foods, but as with too much caffeine, feeling stressed, or eating too much."Common signs and symptoms of heartburn include:Burning sensation in the chestSour taste in the mouthDifficulty swallowingRegurgitation of food or liquidThese symptoms usually occur after eating or when lying down. While heartburn can be uncomfortable, it typically doesnt cause severe pain or lasting damage to the heart.Heart attack signs and symptomsA heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Unlike heartburn, a heart attack can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.Common signs and symptoms of a heart attack include:Chest pain or discomfort, which may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullnessPain or discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomachShortness of breathNausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweatsSoubi Azzouz, MD, Interventional and Structural Cardiologist at St. Marys Medical Center, said the most common symptom association he sees is with exertional activities.During silent heart attacks, the most common nonviolent symptom that patients experience is exertional dizziness or shortness of breath while doing an activity, said Dr. Azzouz. And they sit down, and it goes away, and dont link it with their heart.Silent heart attacks are cardiac arrests with mild symptoms, or no symptoms at all, that you may not recognize as a medical emergency.It's important to note that not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and women may have different signs than men. If you suspect you or someone else is having a heart attack, dont wait call emergency services.These symptoms can indicate a serious cardiovascular event and require prompt attention," said Dr. Hesterberg. "If someone experiences heartburn with other symptoms, especially the ones mentioned above, seeking care is advised."Heart attack preventionWe wrote about heart attack risk factors this month. While some risk factors for heart attacks, like age and family history, cant be changed, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:Maintain a healthy diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. If you need heart-smart diet advice, check out the latest in heart healthy diets.Stay physically active with regular exercise. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic activity.Manage stress through relaxation techniques or hobbies. Research has shown that anger, depression, and anxiety are all strong risk factors for heart disease.Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption. The AHA recommends no more than two drinks per day for men, and one drink per day for women.Keep chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol under control with medication and lifestyle changes. Regular visits with your primary care provider should supplement this.By adopting heart-healthy habits, you can significantly lower your risk of experiencing a heart attack.Understanding the differences between heartburn and a heart attack is crucial for your well-being. If youre unsure about your symptoms, its always better to err on the side of caution and seek help. Take care of your heart its the only one you have! 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, causing about one in four deaths. The good news is that heart disease is largely preventable. There are actions you can take at every age to improve your heart health.Maintaining a healthy heart is a lifelong commitment that evolves with each passing decade, Kurt Spriggs, DO, an Intermountain Health cardiologist at St. Mary's Regional Hospital in Grand Junction, CO. As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and our lifestyles play a crucial role in determining cardiovascular health. Whether you're in your 20s, 40s, or beyond, there are heart-healthy habits you can adopt to improve your well-being.To keep your heart in tip-top shape, follow this decade-by-decade guide:Birth to 10: Establish a foundation for good healthPromote healthy eating: Introduce a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Choose label-free foods, like fresh fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed lean proteins. Swap out processed and sugary snacks for healthier alternatives such as dried fruits and nuts.Play for an hour a day: Set the stage for an active lifestyle by ensuring your children get an hour of play or exercise every day.Limit screen time: To prevent sedentary habits, encourage your child to limit their screen time to no more than an hour a day for children under the age of five and no more than two hours for older children.Teens: Build healthy habitsPrioritize sufficient sleep: Ensure adolescents get at least seven hours of sleep each night to reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease.Avoid caffeine and energy drinks: Energy drinks have been linked to seizures, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and even death in teens. The American Academy of Pediatrics says teens should skip energy drinks completely.Say no to smoking and vaping: Both habits pose serious threats to heart health. Smokers, especially those who start before age 15, face nearly triple the risk of early death from heart disease and stroke compared to non-smokers.20s: Take charge of your healthTake care of your teeth and gums: Gum disease can double your risk of developing heart disease. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss every day. Also, visit your dentist every six months.Delve into your family history: Knowing your familys health background and your genetic predisposition to diseases can provide you with a roadmap to your own well-being.Be mindful with alcohol: Excessive drinking is linked to potential heart problems, including high blood pressure and dehydration. Limit alcohol consumption and counterbalance each drink with a full glass of water.30s: Prioritize stress managementManage your stress: In your 30s, life takes on a new level of complexity as you juggle a family and a career. Left unchecked, stress can create inflammation in your body and cause high blood pressure. Practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.Schedule regular check-ups: Begin preventative screenings to monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These screenings will establish a baseline for monitoring your cardiovascular health and provide early identification of a potential condition.Keep moving: Its easy to drop onto the couch at the end of an exhausting workday, so make sure you have a reason to get up and move especially if youve been sitting at a desk all day. Whether that means taking the dog for a walk, playing with the kids outside, or joining an exercise class, make sure youre getting at least 30 minutes of activity three times a week. You may want to consider using fitness apps, smartwatches, or pedometers to track your daily steps, set goals, and monitor your progress.40s: Focus on preventionStep on the scale: This is the decade when metabolism takes a nosedive. Watch your weight and monitor your Body Mass Index. If its over 25, you are at greater risk for health problems. Prioritize healthy foods and physical activity.Monitor blood sugar levels: Keep an eye on your blood sugar levels, especially if you have a family history of diabetes. Elevated blood sugar levels can contribute to heart disease, so managing them is crucial.Stay hydrated: Maintain proper hydration by drinking an adequate amount of water. Dehydration can cause your blood to get thicker which strains the heart, so be sure to consistently replenish your fluids throughout the day. The Institute of Medicine recommends men drink 13 cups (104 ounces) of water every day. Women should consume 9 cups (72 ounces).50s: Nurture the health of your heartListen to your body: Men and women experience heart disease differently. Its important to learn the symptoms of a heart attack and what to watch for. Health issues such as shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained fatigue, and heart palpitations should be checked out immediately.Continue monitoring your blood pressure and cholesterol: Regularly screen and manage your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Medications may be necessary. Its important to follow your healthcare providers recommendations.Fine-tune your diet: As you age, intensify your commitment to heart health with a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Reduce your sodium intake if you consume more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium (salt) per day. Thats equivalent to one teaspoon of table salt.60s: Prioritize your well-beingTake an aspirin a day: Heart attacks can happen at any age, but the risk skyrockets during your 60s. Check with your doctor about whether an aspirin a day could reduce your risk.Cultivate social connections: Retirement can be a lonely time for some, and research shows that loneliness is as bad for heart health as smoking. Volunteer, join a club, or take a class to establish social connections and maintain your emotional well-being.Create an emergency preparedness plan: Establish a plan for your loved ones that outlines the steps they should take in the event of an emergency that includes your medical history, a list of prescriptions, how to reach your healthcare providers, and the location of your preferred medical facility.70s: Maintain a healthy heartStay active: Get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every week. Walking, balance exercises and resistance training with weights can make your heart stronger.Reduce your risk of a fall: Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults. Abnormal heart rhythms, and low blood pressure are a few reasons why seniors with cardiovascular disease face an even greater risk for falls. Take measures to ensure your living environment is safe by removing tripping hazards and installing handrails.Practice proper medication management: Regularly review your medications with your healthcare provider to ensure they remain appropriate and effective.Caring for your heart is a lifelong journeyYour heart deserves the best care at every age. It's never too early or too late to prioritize your heart health. By making informed choices, prioritizing physical activity, and promoting your overall well-being, you can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life.Life can change in a heartbeat. Take the Healthy Heart quiz to assess your risk.