Did you know that heart disease and stroke claim more lives in Canada than any other cause? Shockingly, over 1.3 million Canadians battle heart disease, with older adults aged 65 or older more likely than younger people to suffer from cardiovascular disease, making it a pressing concern for seniors in Manitoba. This reality emphasizes the crucial need to prioritize heart health, especially among the elderly population in our province. Let’s talk about what heart health is, what can negatively affect it, and how we can help this important organ stay healthy and work for us, instead of against us. Before we jump in, make sure to speak to your doctor if you are planning on making any lifestyle changes.

Why is heart health important?

Heart disease and stroke claim more lives in Canada than any other cause, understanding heart disease's various forms (from coronary artery disease to heart valve issues) is vital. Lifestyle factors like an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol use significantly contribute to heart disease risk.

Some of the most common issues found in heart health are:

• Coronary artery disease

• Heart attack

• Abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias

• Heart failure

• Heart valve disease

• Congenital heart disease

• Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy)

• Pericardial disease

• Aorta disease and Marfan syndrome

• Vascular disease (blood vessel disease)

What affects heart health?

Risk factors like raised blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and obesity can be indicators of an increased risk of heart disease complications. Awareness of these factors empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward prevention.

Can a weak heart become strong again?

While some risks for heart disease are hereditary, lifestyle changes play a pivotal role in minimizing the risk of heart health complications, in addition to also helping improve the health and function of other crucial organs like the brain, liver, etc. Adopting healthy habits, even in later years, can improve heart health as well as your overall well-being and health remarkably.

How can I improve my heart health in older age?

Seniors in Manitoba can implement several heart-healthy lifestyle changes into their routines:

Regular Exercise

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Quit Smoking

Consult Healthcare Providers

Healthy Diet

Moderate Alcohol Intake

4 Heart-health Activities for Seniors

 

Nature or Indoor Walks

When thinking of “cardio,” visuals of running on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike probably come to mind first. Regardless of what equipment you use, you should be covered in sweat, right? WRONG! Yes of course vigorous exercise may have the most benefits, but it’s not the only way to effectively get your cardiovascular exercise in. Walking can also be an extremely effective and even enjoyable method of exercising your heart. Really, anything that gets your body moving and out of a “resting” mode can be good for you. Why not explore Manitoba's picturesque landscapes, attractions, and shopping areas?

Low-Impact Exercises

We’ve all heard the saying “If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.”  As we get older, we might find out bodies' mobility is decreasing. Regular exercise helps our hearts stay healthy and pump efficiently.  Swimming and yoga are great low-impact exercises and tai chi is beneficial for flexibility and heart health without overexertion or risk of injury.

Household Activities

Turn routine tasks like gardening and house cleaning into heart-healthy exercises. This way, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment in your daily routine, while also helping your heart stay active.

Take in some entertainment or fun social activity

How can attending a comedy show, musical concert, or participating in a community activity help reduce chronic stress & heart disease? Poor social health and high levels of stress directly correlate with your heart's health. By improving your social health, participating in activities that bring you joy and laughter can do wonders for your physical health.
 

Quick Access to Emergency Help

In emergencies with heart-related issues, quick access to help is vital. Medical alert buttons, like those provided by Victoria Lifeline, offer immediate access to emergency responders. These devices, available for seniors in Manitoba, are designed to provide prompt assistance during critical situations, giving peace of mind to both seniors and their families.

For Manitoba's senior population, prioritizing heart health through lifestyle changes, engaging activities, and utilizing resources like medical alert buttons can significantly enhance the health of your heart and your overall well-being.