In any person of any age, hypertension can occur. In retirement age individuals, however, it’s particularly common. In fact, when it comes to people 55 years of age and over, approximately 50% are already living with hypertension (high blood pressure). This puts each one of them at a higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases.
According to doctors, high blood pressure can have something to do with heredity. It can also have everything to do with lifestyle, weight, and more. To have a lower risk of hypertension, is there anything that can be done?
To reduce the risk of hypertension, there are a number of things that we can recommend for your aging loved one.
Get Enough Sleep
Everyone needs an adequate amount of sleep every night. In some cases, that can be a tall order. Unfortunately, the risk of developing hypertension is higher when a person isn’t getting enough sleep. For better sleep, make sure the environment is comfortable, a consistent sleep schedule is being followed, and daytime naps are eliminated (if necessary).
Reduce Salt Intake
Blood pressure can be raised by the intake of too much salt. When people are younger, they process salt better. But not so much as they age. Extra salt is frequently found in processed foods and in some fast foods. Large quantities of sodium are particularly common in frozen foods and soups.
Home cooking is always the best bet.
Lower Your Stress Level
Though easier said than done, in some cases, stress should be avoided whenever possible. It’s easier to manage stress if your aging loved one stays away from situations, places, and/or people that cause them to feel stressed out. High blood pressure and stress frequently go together.
Encourage your loved one to participate in hobbies, go to spiritual/religious services, spend time with friends, and more.
Quit Drinking and Smoking
Drinking in moderation is suggested, if not giving up alcohol altogether. A number of health complications can be the result of excessive drinking, high blood pressure being but one of them.
Smoking should absolutely be discontinued. Hypertension and other numerous diseases are at higher risk for people who smoke.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Living at a healthy weight is recommended for a number of reasons – to avoid hypertension being just one of them. It might be necessary for your aging loved one to drop a few pounds if they are currently overweight. In keeping with their capabilities and/or limitations, it’s important they find a way to get up and get moving and to eat in a healthy manner.
Healthy Meals at Conservatory At Keller Town Center
Among the numerous senior living amenities at Conservatory At Keller Town Center are the chef-prepared meals, served three times a day in a fine dining atmosphere. While you may prefer to cook for yourself, the possibility of a delicious and nutritious meal – prepared and served by someone else – can be a welcome change. If you are affected by hypertension, diabetes, or some other health conditions, our chef will prepare meals that suit your dietary requirements. Rest assured, dietary restrictions are never a problem in our retirement community.
Conservatory At Keller Town Center also offers numerous lifestyle programs. Do you have any questions? For queries about sales and leasing, you can call us at 682-688-2221. For other inquiries, please call 682-688-9753. You can also schedule a tour to see for yourself what our retirement community has to offer.
