Seniors & Senior Caregivers Find Out About Aging and the Circulatory System

As people get age the heart muscle becomes less “elastic” and weaker so it pumps with less force. To make up for this, the heart beats more frequently. (The average pulse rate of an elderly person at rest is 70 to 76 beats per minute.)

The elderly also tend to have arteries that become a little harder and narrower. This is often the cause of increased blood pressure, especially the systolic pressure (the top number). Because the circulatory system slows down with age, elderly people tend to feel cold, especially in their hands and feet. You may hear your loved ones complain about their body temperature frequently.

To Help Your Elderly Loved Ones Prevent Circulation Problems, You Should:

• Allow for rest periods – as needed – during the day.
• Encourage daily exercise to stimulate their circulation. And, discourage them from wearing tight clothing that might cut off circulation – such as tight socks, tight pants or knee-high stockings.
• Encourage them to eat a “heart healthy” diet that is low in both fat and sodium.

Pay attention to complaints of feeling cold. Encourage your elderly loved ones to wear socks and shoes or slippers at all times to avoid cold feet. Leave an extra blanket near the bed in case they get cold at night. (However, discourage your elderly loved ones from using hot water bottles or heating pads to stay warm, because they might burn themselves.)

Remember…Watch For & Report

• Swelling (edema)
• Chest pain (angina)
• Palpitations
• Dizziness

The symptoms above are often related to complications as a result of poor circulation.

At Comfort Keepers we seek to be a resource to you because we are Comfort Keepers caregivers and we are here to help! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 866-333-4737.

NOTE: The information presented in this article is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other medical professional if you have any questions about any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment.