February is American Heart Month

The CDC says February is American Heart Month, making it the time to focus on cardiovascular disease. Experts say this includes: shining a light on hypertension (high blood pressure), a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s National Wear Red Day® is on the first Friday in February. The campaign encourages people to show their support by wearing red and encouraging family, friends and co-workers to do the same.

Focusing on heart disease is important as it is the leading cause of death in the US for both men and women; and the awareness campaign helps people to realize it is largely preventable. Experts stress that every adult should be aware of their risk and know the healthy choices to make to reduce their chance of heart disease including coronary heart disease, which is the primary cause of heart attacks.

The NIH explains your risk of heart disease is higher if you:

Have high blood pressure

Have high blood cholesterol

Are overweight or obese

Have prediabetes or diabetes

Smoke

Do not get regular physical activity

Have a family history of early heart disease (your father or brother was diagnosed before age 55, or your mother or sister was diagnosed before age 65)

Have a history of preeclampsia (a sudden rise in blood pressure and too much protein in the urine during pregnancy)

Have unhealthy eating behavior

Are older (age 55 or older for women or age 45 or older for men)

Experts say for each risk you have, the higher your overall risk is for heart disease. While some risks cannot be helped such as your gender, age and family history, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk. Also the NIH says it can be helpful to join #OurHearts in Action, a group designed to encourage and motivate heart-healthy behaviors together.

The MorningStar of Pasadena 55+ community offers area seniors comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. With 149 apartments for independent living and assisted living, we have a selection of floor plans and configurations sure to please the most discerning seniors. A broad range of amenities and services are designed to meet residents’ needs. For your safety, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Visit our website to learn more about senior living in Pasadena, CA.

Comments

Balance Problems Are Common in Older Adults

The statistics of older adults taking a fall each year are alarming, and consequences can impact the person’s independence, or in the worst case, be deadly. Experts say as we age, our bodies may start to feel less stable due to things like a loss of muscle mass, lack of flexibility and slower reflexes. Poor balance and dizziness can also be a result of medical problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, poor vision, thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels as well as medications. Another culprit interfering with balance is inner ear problems. The labyrinth is a part of the inner ear that controls balance and when it becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause lots of problems including vertigo. The condition called Labyrinthitis generally is a result of other issues such as head injuries, viral or bacterial infections, and circulatory system conditions like strokes or low blood pressure. The National Institute on Aging says families and caregivers should be on the lookout for an older ...

The Role of Sleep in Managing Chronic Pain for Elderly Patients

Sleep plays a critical role in the management of chronic pain, especially among the elderly. At facilities like senior housing Kirkland and senior living Kirkland , understanding and addressing the interplay between sleep and pain is key to improving residents' quality of life. Impact of Sleep on Pain Perception Research shows that poor sleep can increase sensitivity to pain. This is particularly relevant for seniors, as they are more likely to suffer from both sleep disturbances and chronic pain conditions. Good sleep helps to restore the body's natural pain control mechanisms, making it an essential element of pain management strategies. Strategies for Improving Sleep in Elderly Patients To enhance sleep quality and manage pain effectively, several strategies can be implemented. First, establishing a regular sleep schedule helps to regulate the body's internal clock and improve sleep quality. It's also important to create a sleep-conducive environment—quiet, dark, and...

Time Management Tips for a Balanced Life

Time management isn’t just for busy professionals—it’s a skill that can help seniors create a more balanced, fulfilling daily routine. Whether you’re enjoying retirement in senior housing Kirkland or participating in community activities, learning to manage your time effectively allows you to focus on what truly matters. Why Time Management Is Important for Seniors With fewer structured commitments in retirement, time can sometimes feel unorganized or overwhelming. Managing your time well helps you: Feel Accomplished: Checking off tasks gives you a sense of purpose. Prioritize What You Love: Spend more time on activities that bring joy and less on things that drain energy. Reduce Stress: Knowing what’s on your plate helps prevent feeling rushed or forgetful. Tips for Managing Your Time Create a Daily Schedule Writing down your plan for the day helps you stay on track. Include time for meals, activities, and relaxation. Try setting aside specific time blocks for tasks, like morning w...

MorningStar Independent Living Blog

Search This Blog