As we age, the risk for heart disease increases; those who are 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to have a heart attack or stroke, or to develop heart disease. While aging itself may cause unavoidable physical changes in the heart and blood vessels that will affect heart health, other factors like diet, exercise and consistent health monitoring are within our control.
Seniors may need extra encouragement to follow healthy habits. Here are three ways that a professional caregiver can help older adults maintain a routine that will support heart health.
Caregivers Can Help Prepare Heart Healthy Foods for Seniors
Following a healthy diet can become challenging for some seniors. Some older people experience appetite loss due to pain or side effects from medications, or they may feel too tired or unmotivated to cook a meal. Others may have vision or cognitive impairments that prevent them from being able to use a hot stove or sharp utensils. Having a helping hand in the kitchen to prepare nutritious, heart healthy meals can minimize seniors’ reliance on convenience foods and help them eat more consistently.
Experts recommend choosing foods that are low in saturated fats, added sugars and salt. Caregivers can ensure that seniors support their heart health by eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber.
Caregivers Can Reinforce Seniors’ Exercise Routines
Medical experts strongly recommend that seniors continue to exercise as they age. Aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening exercises help prevent health problems and foster independence for as long as possible. Exercise improves balance, strengthens the muscles that support joints, improves coordination and increases flexibility – all of which are necessary to stay upright. Fall prevention is important because a serious fall could immobilize a senior permanently and cause heart health to suffer.
Not only is aerobic activity good for the heart, it also elevates mood and alleviates depression and anxiety. Caregivers can support seniors by helping them stick to an exercise plan, taking them to senior fitness programs, following exercises recommended by physical and occupational therapists and providing encouragement to simply move more and sit less.
Caregivers Can Monitor Seniors for Changes in Health
Having a professional caregiver who regularly visits and checks on an older adult is an invaluable resource for families taking care of a loved one. A caregiver is sometimes the first line of defense in recognizing that something has changed in the senior’s demeanor, mobility or daily habits. Kadan caregivers are highly trained in measuring vital signs and other health indicators, and they can make sure that the senior is following the recommended treatment plan and medication schedule for any heart issues the senior may have.
Kadan’s compassionate and professional caregivers are dedicated to serving Atlanta’s senior community and their families with a wide range of emotional and physical needs. For more information or to talk with our team call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.
