Senior Heart Health: American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, dedicated to the awareness, prevention and treatment of heart disease.
“Heart disease” is used to describe a variety of conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function. Coronary heart disease is often referred to as “heart disease” because it is so common, but it’s not the only type of heart disease.
About 610,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every year, equaling about one in every four deaths. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. And every year, about 735,000 Americans have a heart attack.
Coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease is caused by plaque build-up in arteries. The build-up is often called clogged arteries or atherosclerosis. The plaque constricts the amount of blood that gets to the heart.
Seniors age 65 and older have an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, coronary heart disease and heart failure.
Heart disease is also a major cause of disability in seniors, limiting the activity and lowering the quality of life.
Heart disease symptoms
The National Institute on Aging recommends calling your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Pain, numbness, or tingling in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back
- Shortness of breath when active, at rest, or while lying flat
- Chest pain during physical activity that gets better when you rest
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Cold sweats
- Nausea/vomiting
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, stomach, and/or neck
- Reduced ability to exercise or be physically active
- Problems doing your normal activities
Belvedere Home Care services can help keep heart disease patients comfortable at home. We monitor vital signs, prepare healthy meals, administer medication, and prevent clients from becoming overexerted. We work with the client’s medical team to create a care plan that will make the person healthier and happier.
Other home care services can include:
- Help with everyday activities
- Personal care - Bathing, dressing, grooming, etc.
- Laundry and light housekeeping
- Companionship
- Mobility and transfer assistance
- Pet care
- Transportation to appointments
- Positive social interaction
If you or a loved one could benefit from home care to help you cope with heart disease, contact Belvedere Home Care for more information. We offer 24-hour care, daily visits, temporary assistance and many other flexible options that work for your needs and schedule.
Call us today at 518-694-9400 or email info@belvedereservices.com.
