1. Get Regular Exercise

Older adults often feel they aren’t fit enough to exercise. The fact is that people of all ages can benefit from moderate exercise. Research shows that at least 30 minutes of physical activity five times per week significantly reduces the risk of developing many heart-related ailments. Exercise can include walking, jogging, swimming, using machines at a fitness center, or even gardening.

In San Diego, homecare agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the Caregiver in San Diego at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

2. Eat Heart-Healthy Foods

With age, it becomes increasingly important to eat certain foods that are healthy for the heart. These include: 

• Fresh fruits and vegetables – Try to choose vegetables of different colors, including green, red, and purple vegetables
• Seafood – Seniors should try to eat fish at least twice per week or take a fish oil supplement
• Whole grains – Those who eat bread and pasta made from processed white flour should switch to whole wheat or other whole grain alternatives
• Lean meats – Seniors who eat meat need to consume more lean meats, such as chicken and turkey, and avoid highly processed meats such as hot dogs and lunchmeat

Managing all the aspects of a loved one’s health, including diet, can be challenging for a family caregiver. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality elderly home care, Assisting Hands Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.

3. Avoid Foods that Pose a Risk to the Heart

Avoiding or reducing your consumption of these foods can go a long way toward protecting heart health: 

• Fast foods, especially foods high in sodium, fried foods, and those containing trans fats
• Hydrogenated oils
• Excessive sweets, including sugar, corn syrup, and fructose
• Alcohol, which may be beneficial in small quantities, but beyond one or two servings per day, its harmful effects outweigh any benefits

If your loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits that promote better cardiovascular health, a professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior home care. San Diego families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. If you need professional care for your loved one, Assisting Hands Home Care is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 858-667-0813.