Stay Active & Heart Healthy

Your heart is the hardest-working muscle in your body, beating around 100,000 times daily to pump oxygen and nutrients to every cell. Like any muscle, it needs exercise to stay strong and efficient. For older adults, staying active is key to maintaining a healthy heart. Regular movement improves blood flow, strengthens the heart, and reduces the risk of heart disease. The best part? You don’t need intense workouts; simple, consistent daily activities like taking a 10-minute walk, gentle stretching, or dancing to your favorite music can make a difference.

Health Benefits to Staying Active

• Better Blood Flow: Regular exercise strengthens your heart, allowing it to pump blood more easily and improve circulation.
• Lower Blood Pressure: Physical activity helps reduce high blood pressure by improving blood vessel flexibility.
• Less Stress: Exercise lowers stress hormones and releases feel-good endorphins, helping reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Healthier Cholesterol: Moving your body helps raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL).
• Longer Life: Active people tend to live longer and have healthier hearts.

If moving feels difficult or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to speak with your doctor. Physical and occupational therapy can provide strategies to reduce pain and help you move more comfortably. The key is to stay consistent. Every little bit of movement counts! With just a little effort each day, you can keep your heart strong and healthy.