When seniors develop hypertension, they become susceptible to strokes, heart attacks, and other life-threatening cardiovascular conditions. To prevent their blood pressure from becoming too high, seniors may need to make some lifestyle changes. Here are six activities that reduce hypertension risk in older adults.
1. Playing Golf
Engaging in cardiovascular activities is an excellent way to reduce blood pressure. While several forms of exercise increase physical fitness, activities that get the blood pumping can reduce hypertension risk. Playing golf may not have the cardiovascular benefits of an aerobics class, but it’s important for seniors to select activities they enjoy. Seniors who overexert themselves during exercise classes may not go back to the gym for a month. Engaging in a game of golf offers an opportunity to enjoy fresh air and long walks on the golf course.
Even seniors with mobility issues or health challenges can still exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable in-home care. Families trust Align Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
2. Practicing Meditation
When seniors are trying to lower their blood pressure levels, they should consider common hypertension risk factors, ranging from inactivity to high sodium intake. Stress is a known cause of high blood pressure, and seniors with anxiety should find some ways to soothe their nerves. Meditation is a popular stress relief tactic that teaches people how to breathe deeply, let go of negative emotions, and become more engaged with life. Practicing meditation is an excellent way to reduce hypertension risk.
3. Taking Vitamin D Supplements
Inadequate vitamin D levels are another cause of high blood pressure. Many seniors are deficient in this important vitamin because it’s almost impossible to get adequate levels via food. Most people absorb vitamin D through sun exposure, but for seniors, sun exposure can be a double-edged sword. The sun’s rays help the body produce vitamin D, but they can also damage skin, which is why seniors should take vitamin D supplements to boost their daily dose.
4. Monitoring Blood Pressure
To prevent hypertension, seniors need to regularly monitor their blood pressure. If they wait for their semiannual doctors’ appointments, their blood pressure may reach unhealthy levels. To maintain healthy blood pressure levels, seniors can invest in at-home blood pressure monitors. These easy-to-use devices help aging adults monitor their changing blood pressure levels, which gives them a greater understanding of their health.
5. Performing Water Aerobics
For many seniors, cardiovascular activities put too much pressure on the joints. Aging adults who want the benefits of cardio exercise without the potential detriments should try water-based exercises such as water aerobics and swimming. These activities put less stress on the bones and joints while providing the same level of cardiovascular fitness as land-based workouts.
Engaging in water aerobics is an extremely healthy lifestyle choice for older adults. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Align Home Care, a leading provider of home care service. Portland Align Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
6. Cooling Down after Exercise
After fitness sessions, it’s important for seniors to cool down by engaging in deep breathing and moderate flexibility exercises. When aging adults stop exercising without properly cooling down, they could experience sharp drops in blood pressure levels, which can have a negative impact on overall health.
From exercising to performing basic tasks around the home, seniors may need help with several activities. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Portland seniors can count on Align Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Call one of our friendly Care Managers at (207) 835-3490 to learn about ways our experienced caregivers can help your loved one.