Heart Health Tips for Seniors
February is American Heart Month, so there’s no better time to share tips on how to maintain optimal heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
While heart disease can occur in individuals of any age, seniors are most at risk. According to the National Institute on Aging, adults age 65 and older are more likely than younger people to suffer from cardiovascular disease as aging can cause changes in the heart and blood vessels.
Advancing age and other risk factors, such as family history, are unavoidable, but fortunately there are steps we can all take to keep our hearts healthy.
Stay Physically Active
Setting aside 20 minutes every day for physical activity can go a long way towards helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. North Oaks residents have an abundance of options when it comes to physical activity. Walking groups, and the community’s wide variety of classes (including cardio, core crunch, and seated kickboxing) are great ways to stay active. Tennis, pool exercise, and a putting green are also available to our residents just down the street at the Village at Woodholme’s clubhouse!
Eat a Healthy Diet
A senior’s diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber, while avoiding too much saturated fats, sugar, and salt. North Oaks Executive Chef Nate Finney creates all meals with this in mind, and he’s always willing to customize meals to meet the health needs of our residents.
Manage Stress
Stress is considered a contributing factor for heart disease as it raises blood pressure and heart rate. North Oaks’ staff is dedicated to ensuring the health and happiness of our residents. Feeling stressed? Activities such as chair yoga, musical performances, and Pets on Wheels are offered to our residents to keep them feeling great both physically and mentally. Enjoying a great meal with the company of friends or taking a stroll around our beautiful campus are also great ways to reduce stress.
Are you interested in learning more about heart health? North Oaks is partnering with Lifebridge Health to bring an educational speaker series to the Pikesville campus this year. The first edition – featuring Devon Hopkins, Community Health Educator with Lifebridge, is scheduled for Thursday, February 23 at 2 pm. RSVP by calling 410-486-9090!
