Techniques for Caring for the Heart of the Elderly in Times of Worry

Valentine’s Day 2022 is just around the corner, and many are likely preparing to give special gifts to their loved ones. However, taking care of love alone may not be enough, as keeping your heart healthy is equally important. For elderly individuals who have celebrated many Valentine’s Days, a strong heart helps ensure they can spend more time with their loved ones. With age, the risk of heart disease increases due to past lifestyle habits and lack of care. Most notably, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among the elderly. So, how can we maintain a healthy heart? Let’s find out.

Why Heart Care Is Crucial for the Elderly

Heart health is important for people of all ages, but the elderly require special attention. As the body ages, its functions naturally decline, increasing the risk of heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, arrhythmias, and other heart-related conditions. Therefore, taking proactive steps to care for the heart is essential. Early care can significantly reduce the risks of developing these conditions.

Risk Factors to Avoid Before Heart Disease Strikes

The primary risk factor for heart disease in the elderly is the natural deterioration of the body, particularly the blood vessels that supply the heart muscles. This often results in coronary artery disease being common among seniors. Additionally, chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure increase the risk. Other behavioral risk factors include excessive consumption of sugary, fatty, and salty foods, lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet, frequent consumption of fast food, obesity and lack of exercise, heavy smoking and alcohol consumption, high levels of stress, insufficient rest, and neglecting regular health check-ups. These factors all contribute to the increased risk of heart disease among the elderly.

Techniques for Keeping the Elderly Heart Healthy

Starting self-care early can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other serious illnesses. The first step in maintaining a strong and healthy heart for seniors is to control food intake by choosing nutritious meals. It’s also essential to take a rest, manage stress, avoid smoking and alcohol, and engage in regular physical activity. If exercising is too strenuous for seniors, they can try light activities that involve movement, such as walking, gardening, watering plants, or doing light household chores. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, controlling blood pressure, and undergoing regular annual health check-ups are crucial.

Heart health isn’t something to overlook, especially as aging increases the risk of heart-related illnesses. Don’t forget to check your heart health regularly to ensure a strong heart that allows you to celebrate Valentine’s Day and share special moments with your loved ones for years to come. For extra peace of mind, consider lump sum health insurance from Muang Thai Life Assurance, which covers all COVID-19 variants, epidemics, critical illnesses, and common diseases. Choose your coverage plan from 200,000 Baht to 100,000,000 Baht. The entry age is up to 80 years old with coverage period lasting until age 99.*

* Only Elite Health Rider or D Health Rider

• Coverage period of the rider must not exceed the coverage period of the life insurance policy that this rider is attached to.
• Premium is eligible for tax deduction. Conditions are as specified by the Revenue Department.
• Underwriting is subject to the Company’s rules.
• The waiting period reduction to 14 days for COVID-19 infection is according to the specified conditions. It is effective from 28 May 2021 – 28 February 2022.
• Please study the details of coverage, conditions and exclusions before making a decision to purchase insurance.

Sources: Data retrieved on 27 December 2022
🔖Phyathai Hospital (Data retrieved on 25 March 2020)
🔖Bangkok Heart Hospital 🔖Sukhumvit Hospital (Data retrieved on 02 October 2020)