You may think that this is another post about taking care of your heart through proper diet and adequate exercise. Like most adults, you are aware of the steps you should take to keep your heart healthy. But we are going to take a look at this subject from a different perspective than you may expect.

If you are a senior citizen, keeping stress levels low can help your heart significantly. You’ll find the following healthy and beneficial tips easy to put into practice. Whether you live in assisted living, memory care, or an independent adult residence, this blog is for you.

Laugh More – Laugh Often: Is there anything better than a good belly laugh? While we all understand how good laughing feels, and how it improves our mood – laughing also can improve your physical health. Genuine laughter is known to increase blood flow, reduce stress hormones, and boost your antibodies against illness. If you are having trouble finding enough to laugh about these days, look up your favorite comedies or comedic movies from your past, and giggle away. Laugh your way to a healthier heart!
Spend Some Time in Meditation:
Periods of quiet reflection – whether meditation or prayer – is a popular method of relaxation in cultures around the world. No matter the tradition, nationality, or faith basis, quiet times are a common denominator. Why? Because research studies indicate that those quiet moments of focus and mindfulness can have a significant impact on a senior citizen’s overall health and well-being, including your heart. The American Heart Association reports that the regular practice of prayer and meditation is likely to lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Ask For a Small Pet:
Whether a cat or dog, it is a well known fact that spending time with a pet does wonders for stress levels, mood and optimism. Petting animals can also lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels; and can work as therapy for those who are in assisted living or memory care facilities. Pets can also encourage us to take daily walks, spend time outside, and stay active. Did You Know? Many assisted living communities allow pets for residents, and also have events allowing dogs, cats and other small animals to visit the facility.
Take a Little Snooze: The easiest suggestion to keep your heart healthy is as simple as taking a daily nap. Although the connections haven’t been clearly identified, studies do show that those who take 2 naps per week have a lower chance of developing heart disease. You now have a valid reason to snuggle up with your best pillow and blanket and spend some time snoozing.
Keep Things Social: The coronavirus pandemic has made it more difficult for seniors to remain in close contact with friends and family members. Still, even if we have to change our ways of connecting, our relationships should not be ignored. People who have strong social contacts and interact on a regular basis experience better heart health. Support and encouragement can be sustained via through video conferencing apps and phone calls. However, at A Banyan Residence in the Villages, we have fashioned a safe way for visitors and residents to see each other in person

Staying heart healthy can be as easy as visiting with friends, laughing, napping and spending time with your pets!
If you are looking for an assisted living facility in The Villages, we invite you to come tour our facility. The team at A Banyan Residence understand that your quality of life is essential to your overall health, some come visit us today.