Last month was a very busy and exciting one for us! We had the pleasure of hosting an event at the Forest Park Senior Center, and we truly enjoyed connecting with the community. As we move forward, we have a lot planned for this year, and as always, we will continue to keep you informed each month through our newsletter.

 

 💖 February Is Cardiovascular (Heart) Health Awareness Month

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, making awareness, prevention, and education more important than ever.

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Heart disease includes more than just high blood pressure. It can also involve:

• High cholesterol

• Heart attacks

• Heart failure

• Irregular heart rhythms

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Many risk factors can be managed with healthy lifestyle choices, proper medication support, routine medical visits, and early detection.

 

🚨 Signs & Symptoms of a Heart Attack

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If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

• Chest discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes

• Upper body pain: Discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

• Shortness of breath: With or without chest discomfort

• Other warning signs: Cold sweats, nausea, lightheadedness, unusual fatigue

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⚠️ Heart attack symptoms may look different in women, including extreme fatigue, nausea, or back and jaw pain.

 

🩺 Caregiver Tip of the Month: Support a Healthy Heart

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Caregivers play a vital role in heart health. This month, focus on daily heart-healthy habits:

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✔️Encourage movement: Even light walking or chair exercises help improve circulation
✔️Monitor medications: Ensure blood pressure and heart medications are taken as prescribed
✔️Watch sodium intake: Limit salty and processed foods when possible
✔️Check vital signs: Be alert to changes in blood pressure, heart rate, swelling, or shortness of breath
✔️Listen and observe: Fatigue, dizziness, or discomfort should never be ignored

 

💡 Tip: Keep a simple daily log of blood pressure readings, symptoms, and activity levels to share with healthcare providers.

 

❤️ A Heart-Healthy Reminder

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Small, consistent steps can make a powerful difference. Staying active, eating well, managing stress, and attending regular medical appointments all contribute to better heart health and overall well-being.