Navigating Heart Disease in the Elderly

Heart disease is a significant health concern, especially for individuals over the age of 65. Elderly heart care at ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute locations in the Philadelphia and King of Prussia, PA and Marlton, NJ areas are designed to manage the changes the heart and blood vessels undergo as we age. Without proper monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment, cardiovascular conditions will diminish mobility and quality of life, often leading to additional related health conditions. Here’s a brief overview of how heart disease affects adults.

What Is Heart Disease?

It’s important to note heart disease isn’t one specific condition. It’s a general medical term used to describe a variety of possible conditions affecting the heart that include:

Arteriosclerosis – A hardening of the arteries that causes high blood pressure.
Atherosclerosis – Plaque buildup on the walls of coronary arteries that restricts blood flow and is a common cause of strokes.
Angina – Pain felt in the chest, neck, or left arm, caused by plaque buildup in arteries that restricts blood flow to the heart.
Heart Attack – When blood flow to the heart is blocked.

Why Are Seniors at Higher Risk?

Aging introduces natural changes to senior cardiac health, including the stiffening of arteries, thickening heart walls, and a heart that can’t beat as fast during activity or times of stress. These factors, combined with the higher prevalence of conditions like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and diabetes, increase the likelihood of developing heart disease. Lifestyle factors, including years of poor dietary habits, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle, can further magnify this risk. Additionally, some individuals may have a genetic predisposition, making regular heart health monitoring essential.

Common Symptoms and Health Concerns

Heart disease can manifest differently, but symptoms to watch and seek medical help immediately for include:

Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath, even during mild activity
Fatigue or weakness
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
Dizziness or lightheadedness

Minimize Risks With Preventive Strategies

Since aging and heart disease are so commonly associated, seniors should take steps to lower their risk, including:

Eat a heart-healthy diet
Stay active with low-impact activities
Manage chronic conditions
Avoid smoking
Limit alcohol consumption
Maintain a healthy weight
Visit a cardiovascular specialist regularly

Modern Treatments for Heart Disease in Seniors

We offer advanced elderly heart treatment for these conditions with the safety of every patient at the center of what we do. However, while medical interventions can provide immediate care, a holistic approach is necessary for long-term health, which may include:

Lifestyle changes to a healthy diet and regular exercise
Medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and other conditions
Advanced procedures like angioplasty, stent placements, or surgeries to improve heart function
Cardiac rehabilitation geared toward seniors to regain strength and maintain health after a cardiac event
Personalized monitoring through regular checkups and cardiovascular care

Maintain Heart Health As You Age

ReVaMP Heart & Vascular Institute proudly offers geriatric cardiology health services to seniors throughout the Philadelphia and King of Prussia, PA and Marlton, NJ areas. We understand the unique challenges of aging, but knowing that heart health is deeply linked to your overall well-being should be motivation to take care of it with the guidance of our compassionate, expert care. If you or a loved one has concerns about heart or cardiovascular disease, contact us to schedule an appointment.