February is American Heart Month and we at Tupelo Life want to give seniors and their caregivers a few pointers on how to live a heart healthy lifestyle!

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men AND women in the United States? It’s true! According to the CDC, there are about 659,000 deaths each year caused by heart disease. Yet, unlike cancer, the risks and deadly effects of heart disease can be decreased if addressed early.

Who does heart disease effect?

While both men and women are affected, it should not be assumed both groups share the same risk factors. Men are at greater risk beginning at age 45, and women at age 55. It is always important to maintain regular appointments with your doctor, however, if you are within this age group it is vital to visit your doctor and get tested often.

What are the risk factors?

Everyone has a unique blend of genetics, medical conditions, and lifestyle choices that affect risk factors. Key risk factors are high cholesterol and high blood pressure, but the four most significant predictors of getting this condition are:

1.     Age

2.     Family History

3.     Diet

4.     Lifestyle Choices

For a more thorough look into each of the risk factors, this article dives deeper into each predictor.

Where does heart disease begin?

The process of heart disease begins when plaque builds up on the inside walls and outside covering of an artery. Simplified, an artery is any of the tubes that form part of the circulatory system by which blood is taken from the heart to the organs in the body.

Plaque buildup forms a barrier that can prevent vital nutrients and oxygen from reaching the organs, allowing them to function properly.

When should preventative measures be taken?

 The best part of heart disease is that everyone can actively take measures to prevent it from affecting their lives by choosing healthier habits! Some examples include:

1. Attending regular doctor appointments

2. Follow a healthy diet

3. Exercise regularly

4. Maintain a healthy weight

5. Quit smoking

6. Take medications as directed

7. Know your blood pressure

Why Remote Patient Monitoring is the answer!

At Tupelo Life, our Nurse-led Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Program is designed to provide additional support to help manage your chronic condition at home. Patients enrolled in this RPM program receive a blood pressure monitoring device that automatically sends each reading to our clinical care team of nurses. All readings will be reviewed by this team who then will contact our patients as needed to address concerning readings for additional evaluation and education. If further escalation is needed, we then work with your provider to hasten your care.

Enroll Today!

Learn more and enroll in our remote patient monitoring program today. Call us at (469) 914-0044 or visit our website at tupelolife.com to learn more about our program.