Heart Health in Senior Living

The month of February is dedicated to raise awareness about heart disease and prevention.  According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), 29% of adults over the age of sixty-five have Ischemic/Coronary Heart Disease.  This condition is caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries.  Blocked arteries decrease the amount of blood delivered to the heart.  This can cause blood clots, angina, or a heart attack.

A recent article by AARP® outlined 10 signs of heart disease that are not commonly recognized.  You can read the article by following this link:  10 Sneaky Signs You May Have Heart Disease (aarp.org)

Senior Living Options Help Monitor Heart Health

Most assisted living communities offer in house physician services.  This service usually includes the ability to have a lab come to you.  For people with heart disease and taking medications like coumadin, this is beneficial.  Coumadin levels need to be checked periodically and may require medication dose changes.

Some senior living facilities offer the services of INR checks in the resident’s apartment.  This practice is new and not offered at every community.  It is best to ask the nursing team this specific question during a tour.

Here is a list of things you can do to take care of your heart:

• Move your body- all movement counts!
• Health food choices- lean protein, vegetables, and fruits
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Sleep- strive for 8 hours every night
• Monitor your blood pressure.
• See your physician at least once a year