If you’re a senior, the health of your heart has probably crossed your mind from time to time. You try not to worry, but you know it’s also important to face this very real threat. The risk of heart problems increases rapidly between the ages of 45 and 55.
Fortunately, it isn’t too late. Changing your lifestyle now can have a huge effect on your future heart health, and it can also give you an increase in energy, improved well-being and a greater sense of purpose to carry you forward through your golden years.
Add Some Color to Your Diet
Aim for at least five servings a day of your favorite fruits and vegetables, and if you can, try to mix it up a bit. Fruits and vegetables are filled with antioxidants and soluble fiber that can help lower your cholesterol and guard against heart problems. One way to ensure that you are getting enough is to check your cart at the grocery store. If you see a rainbow of colors, you’re on the right track. If you see a lot of brown and white, then you’re probably buying too many processed foods.
Start Getting Active
It’s never too late to start getting in shape, even if you’ve never exercised in the past. Committing to a few simple activities each week, such as walking, hiking, dance, yoga or riding a bicycle, can go a long way in helping your heart. Aside from strengthening your cardiovascular system, getting regular exercise can also increase your energy levels, lower blood pressure, improve your flexibility, decrease depression and generally make you feel younger, stronger and happier than ever before. If you’ve already been diagnosed with a heart condition, don’t begin an exercise routine without first talking to your doctor.
Watch Your Fats
It’s important to watch your consumption of fats, especially if you’ve already been diagnosed with heart disease or high cholesterol. Avoid butter, lard and too much red meat, instead opting for healthier choices like olive oil, flaxseed and fish. If fish isn’t your cup of tea, consider taking fish oil supplements for the beneficial fats.
Don’t Be Afraid to Improve Your Environment
If you’ve been having trouble living on your own, it may be time to consider an assisted living facility. These facilities have come a long way in the past few decades. Many have an abundance of great things to offer seniors, including a sense of community, new friendships, recreation, healthy food and opportunities for physical activity. Many seniors struggle with properly caring for their bodies on their own but find it easier when taking part in an active community. If you’ve been having a hard time getting into a better lifestyle, making the move to an assisted living facility might be a good idea for you.
Growing older can be scary, but it’s nowhere near as negative as it used to be. People are living longer and healthier lives than ever, and as long as you make the effort to stay active and watch your diet, your golden years will be some of the best you’ve ever experienced.
Concerned with the issues of health and human rights, author Molly Pearce shares this post in the hopes in can offer seniors some fresh information on staying healthy. Making the choice to go to assisted living can actually improve heart health by reducing stress and increasing access to health care. Molly found valuble research for this post at http://www.dogwoodforest.com/marietta-assisted-living.html, the website of several assisted living facilities in Georgia.
Photo credit:http://www.flickr.com/photos/oakleyoriginals/8634139503/
