Hypertension in Seniors: How to Control Your Blood Pressure
Hypertension in seniors is one of the most prevalent health concerns that the world is facing today. Hypertension is usually understood as a state of imbalanced blood pressure above 140/90 in the body. It is considered to be severe above 180/120.
However serious the condition may sound though, hypertension is not an uncontrollable issue. Senior adults, owing to their advanced age, are more likely to face complications associated with this heart condition.
Unchecked, hypertension can lead to a debilitation of the overall function of the heart. The condition can also put strain on, and can weaken, various muscle types. This includes the cardiac muscles.
To help combat hypertension in seniors, we’ve put together a list of the things you can do to control and lower your blood pressure.
Remain in control of your choices and actions
Despite the long prescriptions and bags of medicines that your doctor has advised, it is vital to understand that it is often our will power which keeps hypertension in control.
Daily, healthy eating habits, exercise routines, maintaining a healthy mental state, and regular sleeping patterns go a long way towards living a life not subdued by hypertension.
If you’re aware that your daily choices and routines are not conducive to living with hypertension, please get in touch with us so that we may provide advice.
The best diet to control hypertension in seniors
The intake of the right diet plays an important role in controlling hypertension in seniors.
One of the most commonly advised diets for seniors with hypertension is called the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension).
Apart from the inclusion of low-sodium, low-fat and reduced cholesterol dietary supplements, the DASH diet also prioritizes fruits, vegetables, and grains. Dieticians and nutritionists recommend eating a wide variety of colourful fruits and vegetables.
Avoid stress
Stress is one of the major reasons that some people are more prone to severe heart conditions such as strokes and chronic heart disorders. And stress and hypertension are pretty much directly proportional to each other.
Try to avoid stress as much as possible. Activities such as yoga, morning walks, meditation, reading, and traveling might be a good place to start if you need to de-stress.
Consider opening up to those you love. Sharing your mental concerns more often with people close to you might help you to avoid overthinking and stress.
Moderate exercises to keep hypertension in seniors in check
Moderate exercises such as a morning walk, yoga, controlled aerobics and strength fitness have proven to reduce hypertension in about 52% in the older adults.
Mild exercises enable your body to have healthy blood circulation, thus controlling your hypertension. Make sure to consult your physician before beginning with any exercise routine.
According to reports submitted by the WHO, hypertension is one of the major contributing factors in deaths worldwide, and continues to be a global threat. High blood pressure in seniors is quite common and should be kept under check by being precautious.
Reducing stress, choosing a healthy diet and moderate, regular exercise can all significantly help in controlling hypertension in seniors.
This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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