Aging, Your Cardiovascular Health, and 7 Day Home Care

Brian Callahan • October 3, 2023

Learn more about the importance of your cardiovascular health starting today.

As we journey through life, the aging process is an inevitable part of the human experience. While we may anticipate the appearance of wrinkles and gray hair, aging also brings about changes to various aspects of our health. In this article, we will turn to the experts to discuss the topic of cardiovascular health as it relates to the aging process. At 7 Day Home Care, we understand the importance of aging gracefully and are here to support the residents of Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York, in their pursuit of healthy aging.

Your Cardiovascular System

The aging process affects our cardiovascular system by causing stiffening of blood vessels and arteries, which places additional strain on the heart. While the resting heart rate remains relatively stable, the heart may not respond as robustly during physical activities, increasing the risk of conditions like high blood pressure. According to the National Institute on Aging, "changes that happen with age may increase a person's risk of heart disease. A major cause of heart disease is the buildup of fatty deposits in the walls of arteries over many years. The good news is there are things you can do to delay, lower, or possibly avoid or reverse your risk. "The most common aging change is increased stiffness of the large arteries, called arteriosclerosis (ahr-teer-ee-o-skluh-roh-sis), or hardening of the arteries. This causes high blood pressure, or hypertension, which becomes more common as we age." The National Institute on Aging states further, "High blood pressure and other risk factors, including advancing age, increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis (ath-uh-roh-skluh-roh-sis). Because there are several modifiable risk factors for atherosclerosis, it is not necessarily a normal part of aging. Plaque builds up inside the walls of your arteries and, over time, hardens and narrows your arteries, which limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body. Oxygen and blood nutrients are supplied to the heart muscle through the coronary arteries. Heart disease develops when plaque builds up in the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to your heart muscle. Over time, the heart muscle can become weakened and/or damaged, resulting in heart failure. Heart damage can be caused by heart attacks, long-standing hypertension and diabetes, and chronic heavy alcohol use."

According to the Cleveland Clinic, you may be more likely to develop cardiovascular disease if you have risk factors such as:

High blood pressure (hypertension).
High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia).
Tobacco use (including vaping).
Type 2 diabetes.
Family history of heart disease.
Lack of physical activity.
Having excess weight or obesity.
Diet high in sodium, sugar and fat.
Overuse of alcohol.
Misuse of prescription or recreational drugs.
Preeclampsia or toxemia.
Gestational diabetes.
Chronic inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.
Chronic kidney disease.

The Mayo Clinic provides additional risks as follows:

Age. Growing older increases the risk of damaged and narrowed arteries and a weakened or thickened heart muscle.
Sex. Men are generally at greater risk of heart disease. The risk for women increases after menopause.
Stress. Unrelieved stress may damage the arteries and worsen other risk factors for heart disease.
Poor dental health. It's important to brush and floss your teeth and gums often. Also get regular dental checkups. Unhealthy teeth and gums makes it easier for germs to enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart. This can cause endocarditis.

Cardiovascular Disease Symptoms

According to the Cleveland Clinic, "cardiovascular disease symptoms can vary depending on the cause. Older adults and people assigned female at birth may have more subtle symptoms. However, they can still have serious cardiovascular disease." The following is a list of symptoms provided by the Cleveland Clinic.

Symptoms of heart issues

Chest pain (angina).
Chest pressure, heaviness or discomfort, sometimes described as a “belt around the chest” or a “weight on the chest.”
Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
Dizziness or fainting.
Fatigue or exhaustion.

Symptoms of blockages in blood vessels throughout your body

Pain or cramps in your legs when you walk.
Leg sores that aren’t healing.
Cool or red skin on your legs.
Swelling in your legs.
Numbness in your face or a limb. This may be on only one side of your body.
Difficulty with talking, seeing or walking.

What you can do to reduce the risk of heart disease

Incorporate physical activity: Engage in regular, moderate physical activities like walking and swimming to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Adopt a healthy diet: Prioritize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high-fiber foods, and lean sources of protein, while limiting saturated fats and salt.
Quit smoking: Seek assistance from your healthcare provider to quit smoking, which contributes to arterial hardening.
Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, exercise, or talk therapy.
Prioritize sleep: Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night to support heart and blood vessel health.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your cardiovascular health and any specific medical conditions or concerns you may have.

As we navigate the journey of aging, it is crucial to stay informed and proactive about our health. By following the advice of experts, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking regular medical check-ups, we can empower ourselves to age gracefully while prioritizing the well-being of our cardiovascular system. Remember that while we cannot halt the aging process, we can make choices that enable us to lead active, fulfilling lives and cherish moments with loved ones for years to come.

Contact 7 Day Home Care, the most responsive team in home care today to learn how we provide outstanding home care services in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York for individuals who need assistance with daily living activities.

Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care

< Older Post

Newer Post >

24 Hour Home Care for Cancer Patients: Licensed and Trusted for Comfort and Safety

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 29, 2025

24 Hour Home Care for Cancer Patients: Licensed and Trusted for Comfort and Safety 7 Day Home Care specializes in providing compassionate, licensed, and highly trusted in-home cancer care throughout New York, offering 24-hour support tailored to the unique needs of individuals facing cancer at every stage. Our experienced team of certified home health aides delivers personalized care plans that prioritize comfort, safety, and dignity—helping patients remain in the familiarity of their own home while receiving assistance with activities of daily living, medication reminders, nutritional support, mobility, and emotional companionship. As a New York State Department of Health licensed agency with a proven reputation for reliability, 7 Day Home Care works closely with families, medical providers, and long-term care insurers to ensure seamless care coordination and peace of mind. Whether the patient is recovering from surgery, undergoing active treatment, or in palliative or hospice care, our caregivers are trained to respond with professionalism, empathy, and clinical attentiveness to promote quality of life at home.

7 Day Home Care is the best home care agency at Coterie Hudson Yards, Manhattan

Live-In and Hourly Home Care Services at Coterie Hudson Yards, Manhattan

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 22, 2025

Live-In and Hourly Home Care Services at Coterie Hudson Yards, Manhattan At Coterie Hudson Yards, located at 505 West 35th Street in the heart of Manhattan’s vibrant Hudson Yards neighborhood, 7 Day Home Care provides personalized, high-quality in-home care services tailored to the needs of older adults living in this luxury senior residence. Surrounded by premier dining, cultural attractions, and waterfront parks, Coterie offers an elegant lifestyle—and 7 Day Home Care complements that experience with compassionate support for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility assistance. Whether residents require a few hours of help each day or full 24-hour live-in care, our certified home health aides deliver seamless, professional service within the privacy and comfort of their Coterie apartment. Our caregivers are experienced in working within upscale environments and coordinate closely with families to ensure a safe, dignified, and enriching daily routine for each client. 7 Day Home Care proudly serves the Hudson Yards community and offers flexible care solutions for residents of Coterie who wish to maintain independence while receiving the trusted support they need.

Neutropenic diet guide for cancer patients: Learn which foods are safe, what to avoid, and how 7 Day

Neutropenic Diet for Cancer Patients: Safe In-Home Meal Prep Guide

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 17, 2025

Neutropenic Diet for Cancer Patients: Safe In-Home Meal Prep Guide At 7 Day Home Care, we believe that truly understanding the details of neutropenic diet meal preparation is essential to delivering exceptional care—and to giving families peace of mind. For cancer patients with weakened immune systems, every aspect of food safety matters, from how produce is washed and peeled to how meats are stored, cooked, and served. When a home care agency takes the time to train its caregivers in the specifics of the neutropenic diet—including proper sanitation, cross-contamination prevention, and adherence to dietary restrictions—it shows a deep commitment not just to clinical accuracy, but to the patient’s dignity, comfort, and wellbeing. Families can relax knowing that their loved one’s nutritional needs are met safely and attentively, without added stress or risk. This attention to detail transforms what might otherwise be a stressful chapter into one of trust, consistency, and compassionate care—creating an overall experience that feels supportive, safe, and genuinely uplifting.

What Is the Life Expectancy With a High Calcium Score? (CAC Score Risks Explained)

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 15, 2025

What is the Life Expectancy with a High Calcium Score? (CAC Score Risk Explained) According to Mayo Clinic "a coronary calcium scan is a special computerized tomography (CT) scan of the heart. It looks for calcium deposits in the heart arteries. A buildup of calcium can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart. A coronary calcium scan may show coronary artery disease before you have symptoms. Coronary calcium scan results can help determine the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Results from the scan may be used to plan or change treatment for coronary artery disease." The University of Maryland Medical Center states "the coronary arteries are the vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Plaque — made of fat, calcium and other substances — can build up and narrow or close the arteries. To detect this build-up, your physician may order cardiac calcium scoring — a test that is also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, a heart scan or calcium score." Understanding what a coronary calcium score means is essential for taking control of your heart health—especially if you're at risk for coronary artery disease or already managing early warning signs. But what does a high calcium score really indicate about your life expectancy? Is it possible to live a long, healthy life with severe coronary calcification? In the sections below, we’ll break down exactly what your calcium score says about your future, how to lower your risk, what foods to avoid, and how home care can support you or your loved one in managing cardiovascular health at home. Keep reading to get clear, expert-backed answers to the most common questions about CAC scores, life expectancy, and what to do next.

high blood pressure correlates to dementia

Is There a Correlation Between High Blood Pressure and Dementia?

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 9, 2025

Is There a Correlation Between High Blood Pressure and Dementia? High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for developing dementia, including both vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. When blood pressure remains elevated over time, it damages the delicate blood vessels in the brain, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of strokes, microbleeds, and white matter lesions—all of which are associated with cognitive decline. Studies show that unmanaged hypertension, especially in midlife, significantly increases the likelihood of developing dementia later in life by impairing brain structure and function. Chronic high blood pressure can also accelerate memory loss, confusion, and other symptoms in those already diagnosed with dementia. Fortunately, high blood pressure is a modifiable condition, and lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and proper medical management can dramatically lower dementia risk. For seniors and their families, understanding the connection between hypertension and brain health is essential for prevention, early intervention, and long-term care planning.

12 solutions when alzheimer's and dementia patients cant sleep

Alzheimer's Sleep Problems: 12 Solutions When Dementia Patients Can't Sleep

By brian callahan • July 1, 2025

Alzheimer's Sleep Problems: 12 Solutions When Dementia Patients Can't Sleep When a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is not sleeping, 7 Day Home Care recommends a combination of 12 proven strategies to support better rest: maintain a consistent daily routine, limit long or late daytime naps, increase natural sunlight exposure during the day, encourage gentle physical activity, reduce noise and light in the evening, avoid caffeine and alcohol, provide a light snack before bed if needed, ensure the bedroom is calm and comfortable, play soothing music or white noise, establish a clear and calming bedtime ritual, use the bathroom before bed to prevent nighttime waking, and seek professional support if symptoms persist. These evidence-informed solutions are designed to regulate sleep-wake cycles, reduce agitation, and create a safer, more peaceful environment for both the patient and their caregiver.

7 Day Home Care provides specialized cancer home care services

Cancer Home Care: Comprehensive Support for Patients and Families

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 27, 2025

Cancer home care services provide more than just physical support—they offer families peace of mind, preserve the dignity of those facing illness, and deliver compassionate care exactly where it’s needed most: at home. At 7 Day Home Care, our specialized caregivers are not only highly trained to support patients undergoing cancer treatment or recovery, but they genuinely love what they do. This heartfelt commitment shows in every interaction, from assisting with daily routines to offering a comforting presence during difficult moments. With a focus on safety, respect, and personalized attention, our cancer home care services help patients maintain control, comfort, and quality of life—ensuring they never face their journey alone. According to American Cancer Society , "A wide range of health and personal services can be given in the home. Whether a person is being treated for cancer, is recovering from it, or has advanced disease , home care might be an option, depending on the type of care needed. Home care agencies can help you get certain types of expert, compassionate care in your home instead of in a hospital or other facility."

Assignment of Benefits for Long-Term Care Insurance

June 23, 2025

What is an Assignment of Benefits for Long Term Care Insurance? An Assignment of Benefits (AOB) for long-term care insurance is a legal arrangement that allows a policyholder to authorize a licensed home care agency to bill the insurance company directly for covered services, eliminating the need for the client or family to pay upfront and seek reimbursement. This streamlined billing process helps families avoid the stress and delay often associated with submitting claims, while ensuring care can begin without financial barriers. AOB is especially valuable for seniors receiving home health aide services, personal care, or live-in care, as it reduces out-of-pocket costs and administrative burden. At 7 Day Home Care, we work directly with all major long-term care insurance providers—including American Heritage, Brighthouse, CNA, Genworth, John Hancock, Lincoln Financial, Mutual of Omaha, New York Life, Northwestern Mutual, NYSUT-HealthSmart, and UNUM—to verify policy benefits, complete all necessary documentation, and manage the entire claims process, allowing families to focus on what matters most: high-quality, uninterrupted care at home.

7 Day Home Care Accepts American Heritage Long Term Care Insurance

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 13, 2025

7 Day Home Care Accepts American Heritage Long Term Care Insurance 7 Day Home Care is a leading home care provider for long-term care insurance policyholders, including those with American Heritage coverage. We focus on person-centered care that honors each client’s individual needs, preferences, and routines. Our team goes beyond basic assistance by carefully matching clients with caregivers who are not only trained and certified, but also compatible in personality, language, and cultural understanding—ensuring a more meaningful and trusting care relationship.