Heart Healthy Tips from Sharon
By Sharon Leddy-Smart, Lifestyle Coordinator at The Atrium, independent living at The Cedars
The American Heart Association has long appointed February as Heart Healthy Month and Sharon Leddy-Smart, Lifestyle Director and wellness expert, is sharing her tips for staying healthy and happy in 2012.
- Eat Right: We all live longer and stronger with a healthy diet. Be sure to focus on whole grains and fiber; breads, fruits and vegetables are also great options. And don’t forget your calcium and protein needs by enjoying foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, beans, fish, and eggs.
- Drink Your Water: The American Medical Association recommends drinking six to eight glasses of water daily, especially with increased fiber intake and exercise. Keeping our blood and tissues hydrated also helps to lubricate the joints and moisten the lungs to allow for healthy breathing, which all contributes to slowing down the effects of aging.
- Get plenty of sleep: Seniors should get at least eight hours of sleep per night. To ensure a good night’s sleep, get enough exercise and avoid caffeine in the afternoon. As we age, seniors don’t spend as much time in deep sleep. If you’re having trouble falling or staying asleep, be sure to see your doctor.
- Exercise: Generally, seniors should exercise at least three times per week, for 30 to 45 minute sessions. Sharon recommends gentle to moderate activity such as walking in and around our community, taking classes at our FitnessCenter, swimming and participating in water aerobics, or enjoying one of our Tai Chi or Yoga classes.
- Socialize: Be sure to get out and about with friends and family, or sign up to volunteer at one of the many opportunities in Portland or at The Cedars. The Experience Corps Program of Baltimore conducted a study on participation which indicate that seniors who volunteer experience advantages in mental and physical functioning such as a lower risk of depression, less decline in health due to aging, and improvements in memory. Time spent with others can help us stay happy and healthy.
If you have any questions, or would like more information on any of the above, contact Sharon today at 207-221-7100.