How to Check Heart Health: What Seniors Should Ask at Their Next Visit

A senior checkup guide should include information about heart health. Asking questions about the screenings you need, weight issues, and normal blood pressure readings is a big step in maintaining and improving health.

Addington Place of Prairie Village is a vibrant senior community in Prairie Village, KS, that provides opportunities to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. Walk or bike along the city's extensive paths and trails like Ward Parkway, sleep peacefully in your comfortable apartment, and dine on chef-prepared, balanced meals. Additionally, socializing on outings and staying active with exercise sessions with other residents helps prevent the isolation associated with heart problems in seniors.

However, even with a holistic lifestyle, seniors should be aware of how to check heart health. After all, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in those aged 65 and up, according to the CDC.

This senior checkup guide provides insight about heart screenings and what you should ask at your next doctor visit.

What Are the Warning Signs for Heart Attack and Stroke I Should Know?

If you or someone you know exhibits any of these signs that can increase cardiovascular risk with aging, call 9-1-1 immediately. You should also know that a heart attack and cardiac arrest aren't the same thing.

Heart Attack

A heart attack may start more slowly and not hit you instantly. 

You'll also notice:

• Discomfort or pain in the neck, jaw, stomach, one or both arms 
• Shortness of breath with chest pain
• Full chest feeling with uncomfortable pressure
• Feeling lightheaded

Cardiac Arrest

However, cardiac arrest is immediate and can create a quick loss of responsiveness when it hits

It further stands out from a heart attack as it also stops:

• Circulation
• Movement
• Coughing
• Normal breathing
• Responsiveness

Stroke

When a stroke hits, the patient will suddenly feel:

• Severe headache
• Numbness or weakness, often in the arm, leg, or face
• Confusion
• Trouble speaking
• Dizzy
• Unbalanced, leading to trouble walking

It can also cause memory loss for some.

What Are My Current Blood Pressure, Cholesterol (LDL/HDL), and Blood Sugar Levels?

Blood lab tests help measure your cholesterol levels, which may indicate potential blockage or the likelihood of it. It's often called a "silent killer' but some visible signs include yellow, fatty deposits under the skin.

However, measuring blood pressure checks if your pressure is too high or too low. When it's high (above 130/80 mm Hg), it increases the risk of stroke and heart disease as it indicates your heart is working harder to pump blood through your veins.

You can also practice regular home checks with the right pump, as a doctor may ask you to do. Luckily, many issues with blood pressure and aging are preventable through regular movement and diet.

Your doctor may also need a blood glucose test to see if you're experiencing insulin resistance, which happens when you have high blood sugar levels. In addition to heart problems, you may also be at risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Some signs include frequent urination, cravings, skin tags, blurry vision, increased hunger/thirst, and velvety skin patches.

Am I Overweight?

Heart screenings for seniors may also involve the scale. Having a larger BMI or waist circumference can also increase inflammation, blood pressure, and cholesterol. As usual, your physical will weigh you and use a measuring tape to measure your waist.

What Level and Type of Exercise Are Safe and Effective for Me?

Johns Hopkins recommends 30 minutes of aerobics five days a week. Swimming, tennis, cycling, and brisk walking can get the heart safely pumping.

Seniors can also use resistance training from free weights to weight machines to resistance bands. You can also use your own bodyweight to do squats and pushups.

Many seniors also turn to Tai Chi, which combines deep breathing and gentle movements that help reduce stress and aid balance. Further combine with yoga for flexibility.

Regardless of what type of fitness programs seniors prefer, adjust for comfort and energy levels. Don't overextend yourself, as you may cause an injury, so start small and slow while building intensity up gradually. You know you've reached a good level of intensity when you're breathing a little harder, but can still talk.

Are There Any Screenings (EKG, calcium scan) I Need?

A CT scan can detect calcium buildup in arteries. These deposits may happen due to kidney disease, obesity, aging, or high blood pressure.

A cardiac MRI provides a 3D view of the heart using magnetic fields and radio waves. Your doctor may use this if they suspect congenital heart disease or valvular disease.

During an EKG, small electrode patches are placed on your legs, arms, and chest to provide information about heart function.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Are Three Foods Cardiologists Say Not to Eat?

Any physician advises against overconsuming processed meats, fried foods like French fries and chips, and anything with added sugars. Doing so can prevent ingesting too much sodium and saturated fats.

What Not to Do Before a Cardiology Appointment?

Be mindful of what you consume before your visit. Avoid doing anything strenuous, drinking caffeine, or smoking, as it can alter your heart readings. Check with your doctor about EKG testing, so you'll know to avoid wearing lotion that can make it harder for electrodes to stick.

You may need to fast for blood tests, like cholesterol measurements, or skip medications. If you can eat, avoid excessive sugar and salt.

What Can a Cardiologist Tell by Listening to Your Heart?

A cardiologist can understand how blood flows through your valves, irregular beats, murmurs that indicate narrow or leaking valves, and heart rate.

Which Fruit Is Strong for the Heart?

Your heart needs fiber, antioxidants, healthy fats, and potassium to regulate blood pressure. So some of the best fruits to add to your plate include:

• Pomegranates
• Tomatoes
• Apples
• Avocados
• Berries

Know How to Check Heart Health 

At Addington Place, we want our residents to be as happy and healthy as possible to enjoy life and everything the community has to offer. Use Prairie Village wellness tips to know how to check heart health, what questions to ask a professional, and how to prevent chronic issues like hypertension.

Are you ready to learn more about all Addington Place of Prairie Village has to offer? Reach out to us today with any questions you may have, or visit our beautiful campus in Prairie Village, KS.