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High blood pressure is a common issue among seniors and has been associated with other medical complications. It’s important to keep it controlled, and there are many ways you can help your senior parent. Practice the following tips and hire home health care services as needed to protect their health.

How to Help a Loved One Manage High Blood Pressure

1. Eat Right

Healthy eating is a must. Whole grains, vegetables, and fruits are all beneficial and may lower blood pressure by up to 11 mm Hg. Help them stick to a DASH® (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet. This includes consuming more potassium-rich foods, such as bananas and avocados. Go shopping with them and have a home health care professional assist when you’re away.

2. Lose Excess Weight

home health careHigh blood pressure is often a side effect of obesity. Encourage your loved one to lose excess pounds by exercising. Alongside eating healthy, they can take a walk around the block each evening, do light weightlifting or yoga in the living room, or even do minor calisthenics if they’re healthy enough. High blood pressure is associated with heart disease—the leading cause of death in the U.S.—which is why exercise is so important.

3. Reduce Stress

Aging can be stressful, and everyday stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Help your loved one discover ways to calm down, such as joining a support group or getting a pet. Identify triggers and then provide ways for them to stop the stress. Meditating, deep breathing, and distracting oneself will help them stay relaxed.

 

If your loved one needs an extra hand at home, turn to Lifetime Care. This home health care provider is proud to serve Monroe, Wayne, Livingston, Ontario, Yates, Seneca, Cayuga, and Schuyler counties, NY. They’ve served families since 1960, handling everything from home aide services to palliative and hospice care. Call (585) 214-1000 to speak with a team member, and visit their website to learn more about their services. Connect on Facebook for news and updates.

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