February is Heart Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about the importance of cardiovascular health and the impact of heart disease on 2.6 million people in Canada.
Despite the significant progress made in the field of heart health, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the country. While genetics play a role, lifestyle factors can greatly reduce the risk of heart disease.
We spoke with Richard Hughson, Schlegel Research Chair in Vascular Aging and Brain Health, about simple ways you can keep your heart healthy and strong, and warning signs to look out for in yourself and loved ones.
What’s the most important thing you want older adults to know about their heart health?
Heart health and overall health go hand-in-hand. Intentionally include physical activity and good nutrition in your daily routine to keep your heart healthy. Also, good heart health provides some reserve for when your body needs to respond to an injury or illness.
What activities are best for improving heart health?
What warning signs should older adults and their care partners look out for?
What does your research seek to understand when it comes to heart health?
Hughson is also a Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of Waterloo and a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. To learn more about Hughson’s work, visit http://bit.ly/3wyEb0p.
To learn more about physical activity recommendations, check out the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Adults (65+ years), co-created with Schlegel Research Chair in Mobility and Aging, Lora Giangregario: https://csepguidelines.ca/guidelines/adults-65/.