By Susan Oderwald
Senior Life
Susan Oderwald
February is Heart Health Month. As a nation we have made great strides in reducing the number of people who die each year from cardiac-related issues, but heart disease remains at the top of the list of killers.
Heart health in seniors is especially important. Other conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease, can all contribute to cardiovascular difficulties, leading to heart problems, strokes, etc. Medications can have side effects that affect your cardiac health. And, of course, there are a number of cardiac issues that just become more prevalent as we age – the general wear and tear of life adds up in our cardiovascular system.
Because the stakes of poor heart health are high, and also because many cardiac symptoms are not obvious, regular checkups on your cardiac health are important – at any age.
There are many types of heart issues, most of which are treatable in some way. Lifestyle compliance is important, but medications and even surgeries frequently round out the type of care seniors can expect, depending on their specific condition.
At a minimum, if you have not paid much attention to your heart health, make a point this month to take action to ensure the basics are okay. Is your blood pressure normal? Have you had routine bloodwork done and are you in compliance with any heart medications you are taking? Are you seeing a cardiologist annually if you have any known heart condition? Do you and your family members know CPR? Are you eating well and exercising regularly? If you are not sure where to start or are looking for specific information, ask your doctor or visit the American Heart Association website.
February is a time to remember that everyone depends on that magical pump in our chest and keeping it healthy is essential to living well.
Take time this month to show your heart a little love.
Susan Oderwald is care director at the Always Best Care Senior Services Milford Office. She can be reached at Soderwald@abc-seniors.com or 203-877-1377.