Since complications of the heart are the leading cause of death for seniors, it’s important to make sure your aging loved one takes care of this important muscle by making healthy lifestyle decisions. Here’s a list of common heart conditions and how to prevent or treat them.
Coronary Artery Disease
Also known as atherosclerosis, this condition is the result of plaque that has accumulated along artery walls. This reduces the amount of blood reaching the heart and brain and is especially problematic for a senior whose heart may already not be pumping efficiently.
You can help your loved one prevent atherosclerosis by ensuring he or she eats a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol. Your loved one should also work closely with a doctor to monitor cholesterol levels and other cardiac risk factors.
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High Blood Pressure
With age, blood vessels begin to harden and become less elastic. As a result, the pressure exerted against the artery walls increases as the blood moves through the body. This leads to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, especially after age 65.
Encourage your loved one to check his or her blood pressure regularly and share the readings with a doctor. If your loved one is diagnosed with high blood pressure, a doctor can help him or her manage the condition through a regimen of diet, exercise, and medication.
Heart Valve Disease
The heart contains four valves that help blood flow in the right direction. With age, the valves can become less efficient and may not close properly. This can result in shortness of breath, irregular heart rhythm, and chest pain. Treatment depends on the severity of the problem. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to replace the valve.
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Heart Attack & Stroke
Age-related physical changes and heart disease can starve the heart and brain of oxygen. When this happens, cells begin to die, and a heart attack or stroke can occur. While the aging process cannot be reversed, you can reduce your loved one’s risk of heart attacks and strokes by encouraging him or her to stop smoking, limit alcohol intake, remain physically active, and maintain a healthy weight.
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