High blood pressure is a risk factor for serious health issues that occur more frequently in the senior years, such as strokes and heart attacks. While seniors with high blood pressure should always take their medications as prescribed and follow a heart-healthy diet, there are activities they can do to keep their blood pressure under control. Encourage your senior loved one to regularly engage in these activities to get his or her blood pressure to normal levels.
1. Learn a Few Yoga Poses
Yoga addresses high blood pressure in several ways. First, it helps seniors incorporate movement into their day that strengthens the heart so it doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood through the body. Second, holding poses is a form of strength training that reduces the load on the cardiovascular system. Finally, the breathing involved induces a state of relaxation known to reduce blood pressure.
Studies suggest taking part in yoga may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other joint-related issues that restrict mobility. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional at-home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. Play with a Pet
In recent years, it has been found that seniors who spend time petting furry animals such as dogs and cats have lower blood pressure, and the effects tend to be instant. This is believed to be the result of experiencing stress relief while in the company of a pet. Seniors who walk dogs or engage in forms of active play with their pets also get a bit of exercise that helps them lower their blood pressure.
3. Spend Time with Friends
Socializing is another way to reduce stress associated with high blood pressure, and spending time with friends motivates seniors to boost their health. Encourage your loved one to regular social activities to further increase the results. For instance, he or she could go to a restaurant with friends instead of eating alone. Senior exercise classes also add a social element that staves off stress.
Seniors can also get the socialization they need by hiring in-home caregivers. For families living in Rocklin, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
4. Do Strength Training Exercises
For seniors, strength training should always be started slowly and with the guidance of a physician. However, most seniors can do simple bodyweight exercises to build up their muscles. Stronger muscles increase metabolism, which aids in weight loss. Since losing even five to ten pounds can lower blood pressure, increasing muscle mass significantly boosts health.
5. Go Swimming
Often, seniors with high blood pressure have other health issues that limit their physical activity. For instance, seniors who are overweight may give up on high-impact exercises that irritate the joints. Swimming is an excellent alternative to other cardiovascular workouts because it places less pressure on the body. Spending time in the water also increases relaxation so seniors can feel refreshed as they work toward lowering their blood pressure.
Professional home caregivers can help aging adults with a variety of activities that enhance their overall health. The type of home care Rocklin, CA, seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Home Care Assistance, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your parent, give us a call at (916) 226-3737 today.