We are ending Heart Health Month, but we are not ending our responsibility to take care of our own hearts and those of our loved ones. The muscle in our chest demands our daily attention. To take care of it, we are commanded to pay attention to what matters. What does that look like in the daily life of a caregiver? God reminds us… “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Prov. 4:23 NIV). The Bible calls us to guard our hearts, recognizing that our thoughts, emotions, and desires shape the direction of our lives.
Over February, we have shared the importance of paying attention to loved ones with heart disease, as well as our own. Since we have only one heart to give to our country, I encourage each of us to do our best to take care of it. What are the things we can do to feed and fuel our hearts? Well, I’m glad you asked. I’m sure what I will share with you is nothing new. What may be new is changing your actions and behaviors so you can “guard your heart.”
How to Promote Heart Health
Since we know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with African Americans facing higher incidences, you are encouraged to know the risk factors so you can pivot, promote, and provide heart health. Here are ways to promote heart maintenance at any age:
• Address overweight and obesity
• Healthy fats like olive oil and avocados
• Encourage healthy eating
• Exercise activity (always speaking with your healthcare provider)
• Annual physical examinations
• Blood pressure and cholesterol checks
• Stop smoking and reduce drinking (or not at all)
• Adequate rest and sleep
Changing behaviors is not always easy. But taking one day at a time to add healthy habits is the key. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can help manage chronic conditions and, in some cases, avoid them altogether. It need not be complicated or overwhelming. Simple lifestyle choices can make a real difference in how you feel and how healthy you stay in the years ahead.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, I hope the information shared in February gave you encouragement to take care of your heart and the heart of your loved ones. Your heart supports you through every moment of life. Caring for it is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and the people who count on you. Building heart-healthy habits that support long-term heart health and overall wellness is powerful as we age and care for others. If you have heart disease, discuss a healthy heart plan regularly with your healthcare providers. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She is excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous work, From the Lens of a Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflects her experiences and insights from her heartfelt caregiving journey.