Take This to Heart: Tips for Cardiovascular and Cognitive Health

February is a time to focus on matters of the heart. There’s Valentine’s Day, of course, but it’s also officially American Heart Month, when minding cardiovascular health is front and center in your senior living communities. 

Around the world, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women. According to the CDC, one person dies every 33 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease. About 695,000 people in the U.S. — 1 in every 5 deaths — died from heart disease in 2021. 

As we get older, risk factors for cardiovascular disease increase. Some of the most common risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes. “A lifetime of choices and lifestyle can cause all of these conditions, leading to adverse events like such as a heart attack or stroke,” says Mindi Manuel , MS, RD, CSG, LDN, CDP, Senior Manager, Area Clinical Support at Sodexo. “Trying to stay active and eating a healthy diet are that much more important as we age.”

For older adults, cardiovascular health and cognitive health go hand in hand. Preventing or controlling high blood pressure, for example, not only helps the heart but may help the brain too, according to research. Studies have shown that having high blood pressure in your 40s to early 60s increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. 

A healthy diet goes a long way toward preventing many chronic diseases as well, and, as we get older, it becomes even more crucial for brain health. Luckily, there are many ways to keep the heart and brain in great shape — at any age. Mindful by Sodexo is one such approach. It focuses on delicious food balanced with healthy ingredients, with menu offerings that your residents will love. 

“We can indicate on our menus which recipes and meal options are lower in sodium, fat and calories,” Manuel says. “Utilizing those tools is a good way to start making healthier choices, including leaner proteins and more fruits and vegetables in your diet. We also have dietitians in our communities who can provide education on appropriate choices.” 

This approach works in any environment, but it’s especially beneficial in continuing care retirement communities. “Adopting these healthy habits can help you prevent cognitive decline and promote cardiovascular health, especially for seniors,” adds Manuel. 

Heart- and Brain-Health Tips for Your Community 

• Offer a balanced diet with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Add more plant-forward meals, with beans and soy foods as proteins, on the menu. 
• Get residents moving with exercise classes and activities. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise.  
• Reduce residents’ stress factors by engaging them in social activities and hobbies. 
• Educate your community on the importance of sleep, which is beneficial for brain functionality, metabolism, immune functionality and emotional well-being. Experts recommend that older adults sleep between seven and nine hours each night.