Guest columnist, Dr. Hamid Eskandari
Cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, are the leading cause of death among older adults. That’s why I help patients age 55 and older at Greater Newport Physicians MemorialCare understand and prioritize their heart health. By identifying key risk factors and adopting heart-healthy habits, you can significantly reduce your risk and improve your overall health.
As we age, several factors contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, but the most important risk factors include high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, smoking, and obesity.
These conditions can damage blood vessels and increase the likelihood of plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Fortunately, even older adults can reduce many risk factors for cardiovascular events through positive lifestyle choices. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are important steps to reducing cardiovascular risk.
By participating in low-impact activities like gardening, tai chi and walking, older adults can promote heart health and overall wellness while enjoying the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise. I encourage older adults to choose activities that they enjoy and can stick to for the long term. Make exercise a rewarding and sustainable part of your lifestyle.
It’s never too late to adopt healthy eating habits. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure and promotes overall heart health. Limiting intake of saturated fats, trans fats, sodium and added sugars is equally important for older adults to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and maintain heart health as they age.
For older adults, smoking poses a myriad of risks to heart health and overall health. Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage the lining of blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup and narrowing of arteries. Smoking also reduces oxygen levels in the blood, putting strain on the heart and contributing to the development of high blood pressure.
Seniors need to be aware of warning signs for early intervention and treatment. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, dizziness and fatigue should not be ignored and should be sought medical attention immediately.
For older patients, regular checkups are also essential to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other risk factors. My goal is to provide my patients with the knowledge and tools they need to prioritize their heart health through education, individualized risk assessments, and collaborative goal setting.
Visit gnpweb.com for more information or to make an appointment, call 949-305-0110.
Dr. Hamid Eskandari is a Family Medicine and Primary Care Physician at MemorialCare of Greater Newport Physicians. He graduated from the University of Tehran School of Medicine and then completed his residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey.
