One commonality among the many seniors Home Helpers Canton, OH, has helped over the years is high blood pressure. Most have been prescribed medication to control it, while others have adopted lifestyle changes and opted for regular monitoring to keep their blood pressure in check.
America’s Health Rankings by the United Health Foundation reported that In Ohio, 62.1% of adults ages 65+ were diagnosed with high blood pressure in 2021, which is slightly higher than the national percentage of 60.6.
These statistics about high blood pressure and seniors in Ohio and across our nation are sobering, which is why Damey and I have chosen to make high blood pressure a high-priority subject for seniors during Heart Health Month!
Understanding Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is measured by a healthcare provider with a device called a sphygmomanometer that has a cuff that goes around the arm, and a gauge with numerical values showing the amount of force blood is exerting on artery walls when it is being pumped by the heart (systolic), and the amount of force when the blood is at rest as the heart relaxes to fill with more blood to pump (diastolic).
Electronic home blood pressure monitors allow users the freedom to check their blood pressure regularly with ease, and they provide digital measurements of systolic/diastolic pressures.
The National Institute on Aging shared the following guidelines about blood pressure:
Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is systolic blood pressure that measures lower than 90, or diastolic blood pressure lower than 60. Low blood pressure may cause lightheadedness, weakness, dizziness, and sometimes fainting which can be caused by dehydration, blood loss, or some medications including those prescribed for high blood pressure.
Normal blood pressure for most adults is defined as a systolic measurement lower than 120 and a diastolic pressure of less than 80.
Elevated blood pressure is considered when systolic pressure measures between 120 and 129, and diastolic pressure less than 80.
High blood pressure (HBP), or hypertension, is defined as a systolic pressure of 130 or higher, and a diastolic pressure of 80 or higher. HBP, also known as the silent killer, may not present with noticeable symptoms but it is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke, as well as vascular dementia, eye problems, and kidney disease.
Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is more common among seniors due to age-related stiffening of the arteries. ISH is defined as a systolic pressure of 130 or higher and a diastolic pressure of less than 80. It can lead to serious health problems in addition to symptoms of shortness of breath with light physical activity, lightheadedness upon standing too fast, and falls.
How do you control HBP?
If you have HBP, lifestyle changes can lower your blood pressure, but other treatment options, like medication, may be recommended by your doctor depending upon other existing health conditions you have and your overall physical condition.
Lifestyle changes that can help prevent or lower blood pressure include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising
- Eating a heart-healthy diet
- Cutting down on salt
- Drinking less alcohol
- Quitting smoking
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
February is American Heart Month, and Damey and I are dedicated to doing our part to help seniors with HBP, heart disease, congestive heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions, as well as stroke recovery, recuperative care and more.
If you suffer from any of these health issues or you know a senior who does, a Home Helpers® caregiver can provide companionship and necessary support that includes medication reminders, heart-healthy meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping, and a host of in-home care services to help make life easier!
We are happy to schedule a FREE consultation at your convenience to assess specific needs and determine ways we can help you or your special senior someone during Heart Health Month and beyond! 330.892.9329
Home Helpers® Canton, OH, is Veteran-owned and operated. We are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award, the Shooting Star Award (2011), and multiple Platinum awards for the superior level of care we provide. We are Certified Senior Advisors and members of the Home Care Association of America, Alzheimer’s Association, and the International Franchise Association. In addition, we were ranked in the Top 500 Franchises by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2019.
Home Helpers® Canton proudly serves male and female seniors in Stark County, Portage County, and portions of Summit County including the communities of Akron, Alliance, Canton, East Sparta, Hartville, Jackson, Massillon, Navarre, North Canton, Randolph, and surrounding areas.
Sources:
United Health Foundation
National Institute on Aging
