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February is National Heart Month. February 14th, Valentine’s Day, is traditionally a time to express love but what about hearts?

Why are hearts important? Seniors share without a healthy heart their Quality of Life would not be what it is today. Hearts are the power supply for bodies and without them nothing else works. Hearts systematically deliver “power” and when they shut down, all other organs begin to die. Should a heart stop pumping it is important to use CPR chest compressions to maintain a heartbeat. Be up to date on current CPR practices.

Seniors and loved ones are often reminded of best practices for a healthy heart. These life practices are recommended, for everyone:

  1. Nutritional diet
  2. Active lifestyle
  3. Healthy Weight
  4. Controlled blood pressure and cholesterol
  5. Smoking cessation
  6. Moderate amounts of alcohol
  7. Less Stress

 

There are benefits of Valentine’s Day indulgences, however. Chocolate candy found in a Valentine’s box may actually be good for the heart! Dark chocolate contains flavonoids and antioxidants which contribute to flexible arteries, improved cholesterol, and stronger arterial linings. Red wine and other alcohols contain antioxidants and are known to thin blood and help prevent strokes and heart attacks. Raising your glass may benefit cholesterol levels but medications and diagnoses might have unpleasant complications when taken with alcohol. Visit with your physician before indulging.

 

Both chocolate and alcohol should be used in moderation. Savor a small amount of chocolate, not a handful. The American Heart Association recommends no more than two drinks a day for men, and only one for women. A drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 4 ounces of wine, 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits, or 1 ounce of 100-proof spirits.

 

Bridge to Better Living puts their Placement with Passion® into practice by placing each client into the most appropriate Senior Living Option. Every day is Valentine’s Day when a Senior finds an improved Quality of Life by having a Bridge to Better Living consultant by their side. Contact Bridge to Better Living today. You will feel loved.