The heart is the engine of the body, tirelessly pumping life-sustaining blood to every organ and tissue. However, as we age, our heart and blood vessels naturally undergo changes that can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues. Understanding the different types of heart disease and, more importantly, how to proactively protect your heart is essential for maintaining a long, active, and independent life.

At ABloom Home Care, we are dedicated to supporting the heart health of our community. Let us be your companion, especially when you need one the most, in implementing the lifestyle changes that keep your heart strong.

Common Kinds of Heart Disease

“Heart disease” is a broad term that covers several different conditions. The most common types affecting seniors include:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This is the most prevalent form of heart disease. It occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart, potentially leading to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks.
• Heart Failure: This doesn’t mean the heart has stopped, but rather that it isn’t pumping blood as efficiently as it should. This often results in fatigue and shortness of breath.
• Arrhythmias: These are heart rhythm disorders where the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common arrhythmia in older adults that can increase stroke risk.
• Heart Valve Disease: This happens when one or more of the heart’s valves do not open or close properly, disrupting blood flow.

Advice for a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

The good news is that many heart conditions can be prevented or managed through consistent, healthy choices. Here is how you can take care of your heart:

1. Eat Better: Focus on a “Mediterranean-style” diet. Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like fish. Crucially, reduce salt (sodium) intake, as excess salt is a primary driver of high blood pressure.
2. Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking or swimming. Regular movement strengthens the heart muscle and improves circulation.
3. Know Your Numbers: Regularly monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. Keeping these “numbers” within a healthy range is one of the best ways to prevent a cardiac event.
4. Manage Stress and Sleep: Chronic stress and poor sleep (less than 7 hours) can strain the heart. Practice relaxation techniques and maintain a consistent sleep schedule to allow your heart to rest and recover.
5. Quit Tobacco: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease. Quitting at any age provides immediate benefits to your blood pressure and heart rate.

How In-Home Care Supports Heart Health

Managing a heart-healthy routine—from preparing low-sodium meals to staying active—can be a challenge to do alone. Let us be your companion, especially when you need one the most. With a companion around, seniors and other homebound individuals can live an improved quality of life.

Allow our caregivers to assist you with any tasks that you need to accomplish, as well as simply provide you with company at home. We can make sure that you will stay safe and comfortable, away from the risks of safety and health hazards. In-home companionship also helps minimize the risks of loneliness and social isolation, providing improved outcomes for an individual’s holistic well-being.

Our reliable companions can provide the following services: * Engage in mind-stimulating conversations

• Minimize safety risks through round-the-clock care
• Assist with activities of daily living
• Provide medication reminders and mobility assistance
• Escort patients to their appointments/trips
• And more

Get in Touch

For more information about how we can be of help to you and your loved ones, please do not hesitate to send us a message at a time of your convenience. You may also meet with us so we can provide you with an assessment and tailor a care plan according to your specific needs.