People age 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to
suffer a Heart Attack, to have a Stroke, or to develop Coronary Heart Disease (commonly called heart
disease) and the Heart Failure.
The most common aging change is increased stiffness of the large
arteries, called arteriosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. the arteries that
become stiffer with thicker walls create a reduced ability to expand as blood
pumps through the heart. High blood pressure can also occur, further increasing
the risk of heart disease and stroke. The heart walls thicken and stiffen,
preventing the muscle from relaxing and filling adequately between beats. Thus,
inefficient pumping during periods of exertion can contribute to fatigue and
exercise intolerance
Heart disease is a killer among the aging population. But
healthy lifestyle can provide the first line of defense against this
debilitating disease.
Signs of Heart Disease
Early heart disease often doesn't have
symptoms or the symptoms may be barely noticeable. That's why regular Check ups with your doctor are important.
Contact your doctor right away if you
feel any chest pain, pressure, or discomfort. However, chest pain is a less
common sign of heart disease as it progresses, so be aware of other
symptoms. Tell your doctor, if
you have:
There are many steps you can take to keep
your heart healthy.
Try to be more Physically Active. Minimize the amount of inactivity, increase the
general level of activity, and make exercise an integral part of daily life.
Include at least 20 minutes of daily aerobic exercise.
Start by doing activities you enjoy—brisk
walking, dancing, bowling, bicycling, or gardening, for example. Avoid spending
hours every day sitting in front of your TV.
If you smoke, quit. Smoking is the leading cause
of preventable death. Smoking adds to the damage to artery
walls. It's never too late to get some benefit from Quitting Smoking.
Quitting, even in later life, can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke,
and cancer over
time.
Follow a heart-healthy diet. Choose
foods that are low in trans and saturated fats, added sugars,
and salt.
As we get older, we become more sensitive to salt, which can cause swelling in
the legs and feet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber,
like those made from whole grains.
Keep a healthy weight. Balancing
the calories you eat and drink with the calories burned by being physically
active helps to maintain a healthy weight. Some ways you can maintain a healthy
weight include Limiting Portion size and
being Physically active.
Keep your High blood sugar, High Blood Pressure and/or high cholesterol under control. Follow
your doctor's advice to manage these conditions, and take medications as
directed.
Limit
Consumption of Alcohol. Men should not have
more than two drinks a day and women only one. One drink is equal to:
Manage stress. Practice daily stress management
techniques, including stretching, relaxation, breathing, imagery, and
meditation. Emphasis on
your social connections and talk things out with friends or family.
Source - National Institute On Aging