When we think of February, Valentine’s Day often comes to mind – a celebration of love, hearts, and togetherness. But did you know that February is also American Heart Month?
While we celebrate love, it’s the perfect time to focus on heart health. This annual observance encourages everyone, especially older adults, to be aware of heart disease and be mindful of their cardiovascular health.
Maintaining a healthy heart is about more than just physical health – it’s also about emotional well-being.
Why Heart Health Matters
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States according to the CDC, with seniors facing heightened risks due to age-related changes and other health conditions. While it’s a serious issue, there are manageable steps you can take to maintain a healthy heart.
Heart health isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s also tied to emotional well-being. By focusing on both, you can improve your overall quality of life.
Simple Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Heart
Here are some small, manageable changes that can make a big difference in your heart health:
• Stay Active – Regular physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or gentle stretching strengthens the heart and improves circulation. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• Eat Heart-Healthy Foods – Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, whole grains and lean proteins into your meals. Limit saturated fats, sodium and added sugars.
• Monitor Your Metrics – Keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Regular check-ups with your doctor can help catch and manage potential issues early.
• Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol – Smoking and excessive drinking can have severe effects on heart health. Even secondhand smoke can affect you. If you need support to quit smoking, seek resources and support groups in your area.
• Get Enough Rest – Believe it or not, not getting enough sleep can put you at risk for heart disease. The National Institute on Aging recommends that all adults should be getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night to help prevent heart complications.
Heart disease can affect anyone, but there are even bigger risks for:
• Smokers
• People with high blood pressure
• People with high cholesterol
• Diabetics or pre-diabetics
• People who are overweight or obese
The Link Between Emotional and Physical Heart Health
Emotional health plays just as much of a critical role in heart health as physical health does. Stress, PTSD, depression, anxiety and loneliness can have physical effects on your body, including increased blood pressure and inflammation, which can strain the heart over time. Here are some ways you can nurture your emotional well-being and protect your heart:
Stay Connected – Regular interactions with family and friends can reduce feelings of loneliness and improve mental health. Consider joining local groups or virtual communities to stay engaged.
Practice Mindfulness – Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing or journaling can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Seek Outside Support – If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Talking to a therapist or counselor can make a big difference.
Show Your Heart Some Love
This February, take the opportunity to show your heart some love. Whether it’s through small lifestyle changes, reaching out for emotional support, or seeking help from a trusted caregiver, every step counts toward a healthier you.
For more information on how SYNERGY HomeCare can support you or your loved one during American Heart Month and beyond, please visit https://synergyhomecare.com/ or call (877) 432-2692.
SOURCES:
What health conditions are linked to a lack of sleep? | CDC
Heart disease in the United States | CDC
Keep Your Heart Healthy | ODPHP
U.S. commemorates 57th consecutive American Heart Month in February | AHA
About Heart Disease and Mental Health | CDC
American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids | AHA
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