This month, it’s all about the heart. February is the home of Valentine’s Day, of course. And it’s also American Heart Month. In this blog, we’re highlighting lots of fun ways to give your heart some love.

Friendship

One important way we can nurture our well-being is through friendship. The support we receive through interactions with people we love and enjoy benefits both our emotional and physical health. If you’re able to spend time with a friend in person, wonderful! Try reaching out soon and invite them for coffee, a walk, or perhaps a movie. If you can’t meet together, consider sending a Valentine, making a call, or texting to connect on a regular basis. Last month’s blog lists several ways to build friendships. Take a look, get some ideas, and have some fun! It’ll make your heart glad.

Exercise

We’ve all heard it a thousand times: get moving to improve heart health. But it’s still true! Exercise at any age can help reduce chronic pain, improve flexibility and balance, boost the immune system, enhance mood, improve sleep, and more. Invite a friend along to increase the heart-loving benefits. The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity activity—such as brisk walking—for adults 65 and over. Also try to include activities that strengthen muscles and improve balance, like weight training or standing on one foot. If you prefer to get fit at home, check out these home workouts for seniors.

Sleep

Sounds easy, right? Maybe it used to be. Many adults over age 60 experience trouble sleeping at some point. Lack of sleep can cause irritability, daytime drowsiness, anxiety, and it can threaten heart health. During deep sleep, our bodies recuperate and recover from daily stresses. If you suffer from ongoing insomnia, it may be time to call your doctor. If you’re just starting to notice trouble nodding off at night, some simple solutions might help. Try developing a relaxing bedtime routine. Read or take a warm bath before bed. Turn off television and device screens to give your eyes and mind a chance to wind down. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and napping late in the day. And make your bedroom an inviting place to be. Treating sleep like a special “treat” might help your mind and body embrace it over time.

Food

If you love cooking, do it! This month, cooking can benefit your heart in more ways than one. Treat yourself to some time in the kitchen doing what you enjoy. Do you like preparing meals from scratch? Baking? Taking on a new challenge? Creating something good to share? All of these culinary activities can give your well-being a boost. While you’re at it, give some familiar recipes a fresh, healthy twist: like this delicious, fiber-rich take on the beloved pancake. And since it’s Valentine’s Day, check out these heart-healthy treats and heat up the kitchen. (Pssst. If you just need one good day of indulgence, check out the Fort Wayne Dessert Trail here. You’re welcome.)

Hope

Having something to look forward to is majorly good for your heart. Hopeful anticipation stops boredom and can bolster your mood, sense of purpose, creativity, and energy level. What would you like to do? Make a little list of things you feel excited about and plan one. Do you want to start or learn something new? Pick up something you’ve put off doing? Craft? Get organized? Do something special for someone? Make some plans for pure fun or satisfying productivity. If you need a curated list to inspire ideas, look here for safe and local things to do from home while you wait out the pandemic.

There are many ways to care for your heart this month. Take Valentine’s Day to the next level by nurturing your heart health through friendship, fun, and new ideas. Invite someone to join you. Go ahead and bless your heart.

The Cedars Retirement Community

The Cedars Retirement Community is a beautiful lakeside retirement residence located just outside of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The Cedars believes in providing the highest quality of life and opportunity for seniors at almost all levels of mobility and health. We are operating with great care during this pandemic and are following all guidelines issued by the CDC and ISDH. Please contact us with any questions you may have.