Prioritizing Heart Health: American Heart Month at Lagom Care
February is American Heart Month, a time to bring awareness to heart health and encourage everyone to take steps toward a healthier heart. At Lagom Care, we are committed to ensuring the well-being of our seniors and caregivers, emphasizing the importance of cardiovascular health as a key aspect of overall wellness. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., but with the right lifestyle choices and medical guidance, it is largely preventable.
Understanding Heart Disease
Heart disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, and heart failure. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to its prevalence. Seniors are especially vulnerable, making heart health a top priority in caregiving.
Tips for a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle
At Lagom Care, we encourage our community to adopt habits that support cardiovascular health. Here are key steps to maintaining a strong heart:
1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Reduce intake of saturated fats, sodium, and processed foods.
Incorporate heart-healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
2. Stay Physically Active
Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Walking, swimming, and yoga are great options for seniors.
Staying active improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the heart.
3. Manage Stress Effectively
Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease.
Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling.
Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, like hobbies or socializing.
4. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels
Regular check-ups with healthcare providers can help track and manage heart disease risk factors.
Medication, if prescribed, should be taken as directed.
Maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle to naturally control blood pressure and cholesterol.
5. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease and should be avoided.
If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation, as excessive intake can raise blood pressure and contribute to other heart-related issues.
6. Get Quality Sleep
Poor sleep can increase stress and negatively impact heart health.
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
Establish a consistent sleep routine and create a comfortable sleeping environment.
Lagom Care’s Commitment to Heart Health
At Lagom Care, we support our caregivers and seniors in prioritizing their heart health. From providing nutritional guidance to encouraging active lifestyles, we are dedicated to creating a caring environment where heart wellness is a priority.
This American Heart Month, take proactive steps to protect your heart and encourage those around you to do the same. Small changes today can lead to a healthier, longer life. Let’s make heart health a lifelong commitment!
For more tips and guidance, visit https://www.heart.org.
