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

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.

Why Does Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score Matter?

A high coronary artery calcium (CAC) score is one of the most reliable indicators of cardiovascular risk. But does it mean you won’t live long? Should you be worried? And most importantly—can you do something about it?

If you or your loved one recently received a high CAC score, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. This article from 7 Day Home Care will explain, in clear terms, what your calcium score means, how it may affect your life expectancy, and what actions can significantly improve your outlook. We’ll also answer key questions people ask every day, such as:

Can I live a long life with a high CAC score?
What foods should I avoid?
How can I lower my calcium score naturally or with medical care?

What Is a Coronary Calcium Score?

A coronary calcium score measures calcified plaque buildup in your heart’s arteries using a specialized CT scan. This plaque is a sign of atherosclerosis, a disease in which arteries harden and narrow, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

The score you receive is a number that represents how much plaque is present. Higher numbers signal more plaque and a greater chance of cardiovascular problems in the future.

What Does My Calcium Score Mean?

Every calcium score falls into a risk category. Here's what those numbers typically mean:

Score of 0: No visible plaque. This is considered very low risk.
Score between 1–99: Mild plaque buildup. You may be at low to mild risk, depending on age and lifestyle.
Score between 100–399: Moderate plaque. This indicates a moderate risk for heart disease and usually prompts a deeper evaluation.
Score of 400 or higher: Extensive plaque buildup. This means you’re at high risk of a cardiac event such as a heart attack or stroke.
Score over 1,000: Severe calcification. This is considered very high risk and often requires aggressive management.

These numbers are not a diagnosis. They are warning signals—early alerts that allow you to take control of your future health.

What Happens If I Have a High Calcium Score?

If your score is over 400, it means your arteries are significantly narrowed due to plaque buildup. This can:

Reduce blood flow to the heart
Increase the chance of a clot or rupture
Raise your risk of sudden heart attack or stroke

However, a high calcium score does not mean you will definitely have a heart attack. It means your risk is elevated—and now is the time to act. With medication, diet, exercise, and support, you can dramatically reduce that risk and live many more healthy years.

Can I Live a Long Life With a High CAC Score?

Yes. Many people with high CAC scores live well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond. The key is how you respond once you know your score.

Here’s what makes the difference:

Statins and other medications to manage cholesterol and stabilize plaque
A heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in plant-based foods
Exercise, even just walking 30 minutes a day
No smoking, and strict control of high blood pressure or diabetes
Regular follow-up care with your doctor or cardiologist

In one major study, people with high CAC scores who made strong lifestyle changes saw a 60% reduction in heart attack risk over the next decade.

What Is the Life Expectancy With Severe Coronary Calcification?

Life expectancy depends on many variables, but research shows that:

Adults under 50 with a CAC score over 400 may have a 4–6 year shorter lifespan than peers with a score of 0
Adults between 50 and 70 may face a 2–4 year reduction, though this depends on other factors like smoking, diabetes, and family history
Adults over 70 with a high score still face risk, but the impact on total lifespan is less predictable, since age itself becomes a stronger factor

The good news is that you can interrupt this trend. Stabilizing plaque and preventing new buildup dramatically improves your odds.

What Is the Mortality Rate for CAC Patients?

Your risk of death increases with your calcium score—but it’s not set in stone. On average:

Score of 0: Less than 2% mortality rate over 10 years
Score between 100–399: Around 8–15% 10-year mortality rate
Score over 1,000: Up to 30% or more risk of dying from heart-related issues over the next decade

These figures reflect general trends. Individual outcomes vary widely depending on whether or not a person follows medical recommendations and adopts heart-healthy habits.

What Is the Life Expectancy of Someone With Hardening of the Arteries?

Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, is the root cause of coronary calcification. Left untreated, it can lead to:

Heart attacks
Angina (chest pain)
Stroke
Heart failure
Kidney problems

Without intervention, life expectancy may be significantly reduced. But with proper care, most people with atherosclerosis can live long, active lives. Modern cardiology, medications, and lifestyle changes work—and they work best when started early.

What Foods Should You Avoid If You Have a High Calcium Score?

To protect your heart and prevent further calcification, avoid foods that promote inflammation, raise cholesterol, or add strain on your blood vessels.

Foods to Avoid:

Saturated fats: Found in red meats, butter, cheese, and full-fat dairy
Trans fats: Often in baked goods, fried foods, and processed snacks
Refined carbs: White bread, pastries, sugary cereals
Added sugar: Soda, candy, and sweetened drinks
High-sodium items: Canned soups, fast food, deli meats
Alcohol: Limit or avoid entirely, especially if other risk factors exist

Better Alternatives:

Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
Whole grains (oats, brown rice)
Olive oil instead of butter
Nuts, legumes, and seeds
Fatty fish like salmon or mackerel
Berries, avocados, and citrus fruits

Following the Mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk and slow plaque progression.

How Can I Lower My Coronary Calcium Score?

You can’t reverse existing calcium buildup, but you can prevent it from getting worse and reduce your chance of a cardiac event.

Here are the most effective steps:

Start statins: These cholesterol-lowering medications also help stabilize plaque
Control blood pressure: Keep it below 120/80 when possible
Quit smoking: Tobacco is a major driver of calcification and artery damage
Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity
Maintain a healthy weight: Even small weight loss can improve risk
Limit alcohol and sugar: Both increase inflammation and heart strain
Reduce stress: Chronic stress can increase blood pressure and cortisol, both harmful to heart health

By combining medical treatment with daily lifestyle changes, many people keep their calcium score stable for years and avoid major events entirely.

When Should You Be Worried About Your Calcium Score?

You should take any CAC score seriously—but particularly if:

Your score is 400 or higher
You’re under age 70 with moderate or severe plaque
You have multiple other risk factors, like smoking, diabetes, or family history of heart disease

A score over 1,000 signals very high risk and usually leads to more testing, including stress tests or echocardiograms. But again: it’s not a sentence. It’s a signal to act.

How 7 Day Home Care Can Help

At 7 Day Home Care, we know how overwhelming it can be to face a new health risk like coronary calcification. That’s why we provide trusted, compassionate in-home care tailored to seniors managing cardiovascular conditions, recovering from heart procedures, or living with chronic illness.

Our services include:

Medication reminders and blood pressure monitoring
Heart-healthy meal prep aligned with your doctor’s orders
Light exercise support and daily activity guidance
Accompaniment to cardiologist and primary care appointments
Emotional support and stress reduction through routine and companionship

Whether you're living in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, or Nassau County, Suffolk County on Long Island we’re here to support your heart, your health, and your peace of mind.

A high calcium score is serious—but it’s also a gift of foresight. It gives you the chance to take control of your health, prevent future complications, and extend your life. With the right care plan, daily support, and a renewed focus on lifestyle, you can live a longer, healthier, more independent life—even with a high CAC score.

If you or your loved one is navigating cardiovascular concerns and want help at home, call 7 Day Home Care today. Our experienced team is ready to help you take the next step—safely and confidently. 7 Day Home Care provides private pay in-home care services and is a approved provider under your long term care insurance policy throughout NYC, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York. To learn more about our specialized in-home care services, please call 516-408-0034.

Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care

< Older Post

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.

What are the Top 15 Symptoms of Diabetes?

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

People Ask What are the Top 15 Symptoms of Diabetes? The 15 t op symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased hunger, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or extreme tiredness, blurred vision, slow-healing sores or cuts, frequent infections, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, dry or itchy skin, dark patches of skin (especially in folds or creases), irritability or mood changes, sexual dysfunction, recurring yeast infections, and headaches or brain fog. Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms, but noticing even a few may be an early warning sign that blood sugar levels are out of balance and should be checked by a healthcare provider. Recognizing the early symptoms of diabetes is crucial because it allows for timely diagnosis, early treatment, and the prevention of serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage. Many signs - like frequent urination, fatigue, or blurred vision—can be overlooked or misattributed to aging or stress, delaying care and increasing health risks. By paying attention to these warning signs and seeking medical guidance early, individuals can better manage their blood sugar levels, make informed lifestyle changes, and significantly reduce the likelihood of long-term damage. Early detection is not just about treatment - it's about preserving quality of life and avoiding irreversible health outcomes. 7 Day Home Care provides low cost private pay in-home care services throughout NYC - Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island , New York. To learn more about our home health aide care services for individuals with diabetes, please call 516-408-0034 to schedule your free consultation.

7 day home care is the #1 home care agency approved by metlife long term care insurance

7 Day Home Care Accepts MetLife Long Term Care Insurance

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 5, 2025

7 Day Home Care Accepts MetLife Long Term Care Insurance Choosing a home care agency with deep experience in MetLife Long Term Care Insurance claims gives families unmatched peace of mind and confidence. At 7 Day Home Care, we’ve spent years successfully providing home health aide services approved by MetLife, helping clients and their families maximize benefits while receiving exceptional in-home care. Our expertise in interpreting MetLife policy terms, coordinating required documentation, and meeting eligibility criteria ensures that care is not only high quality, but also fully aligned with insurance requirements. Families trust us because we simplify the process—from benefit verification to claim submission—while delivering compassionate, personalized support that meets both emotional and medical needs. When it comes to trusted, MetLife-approved home care in New York, 7 Day Home Care is the agency of choice.

The Hidden Dangers of Sugar

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 2, 2025

The Hidden Dangers of Sugar - Is Sugar Bad for You? Yes, sugar can be harmful when consumed in excess. While small amounts of sugar are not inherently bad, too much added or refined sugar is linked to serious health risks, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation. What counts as "moderation" varies from person to person, as individual factors like age, metabolism, activity level, and existing health conditions all affect how the body processes sugar. This means the same amount of sugar can impact people differently, making it important to monitor intake based on personal health needs. How Do I Know if My Sugar Intake is Too Much or Problematic? You can determine whether your sugar intake is moderate or problematic by paying attention to both your body’s signals and your overall dietary patterns. If you experience signs such as increased hunger, weight gain, irritability, fatigue, digestive discomfort, frequent headaches, or persistent cravings for sweets, these may indicate excessive sugar consumption. Additionally, if added sugars are displacing nutrient-rich foods in your diet, or if you notice symptoms like frequent urination, increased thirst, or trouble concentrating, it could be a sign that your sugar intake is too high. While the human body needs some form of glucose for energy, consuming too much added sugar—the kind found in soda, candy, baked goods, and many processed foods—can have serious health consequences. Numerous studies have linked high sugar intake to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and cognitive decline, especially when consumed regularly over time. Unlike natural sugars found in fruits and dairy, added sugars provide empty calories with no essential nutrients, which can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation - factors that significantly increase disease risk. For example, a landmark study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2014 titled: “Added Sugar Intake and Cardiovascular Diseases Mortality Among US Adults” shows that individuals who consume 17–21% of their daily calories from added sugars have a 38% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared to those who limit intake to 8% or less. Excess sugar can also disrupt hunger hormones, cause energy crashes, and accelerate aging through oxidative stress and cellular damage. Most health authorities - including the CDC and American Heart Association—recommend that adults consume no more than 6–9 teaspoons of added sugar per day, yet the average American consumes nearly three times that amount. In summary, excessive intake of sugar is clearly linked to multiple chronic conditions and should be limited for optimal health and longevity.

Sepsis is life altering and recovery for the elderly is extremely challenging.

What Is the Life Expectancy After Sepsis?

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

What is the Life Expectancy After Sepsis? Life expectancy after sepsis depends on factors like age, overall health, organ damage, and how quickly treatment began, with many survivors facing lasting effects known as post-sepsis syndrome—such as fatigue, memory issues, and recurring infections. In-home care can make a life-changing difference by providing daily support, medication management, and personalized rehabilitation that helps rebuild strength, restore independence, and improve long-term quality of life. When there is no support at home after sepsis, survivors often struggle to manage the complex aftermath of the illness, which can include fatigue, cognitive decline, weakened immunity, chronic pain, and mobility issues. Without consistent care and monitoring, these individuals are at higher risk of hospital readmission, complications from missed medications or untreated infections, and a decline in both physical and mental health. The lack of structured rehabilitation and emotional support can accelerate deterioration, increase the likelihood of additional medical crises, and significantly reduce overall life expectancy. A supportive home care environment is often critical to stabilizing health, regaining function, and preventing a downward spiral that unmanaged post-sepsis symptoms can trigger. A highly trained and experienced home health aide from a trusted home care agency like 7 Day Home Care can make a life-saving difference for individuals recovering from sepsis. These professionals are not only equipped to assist with essential daily tasks like bathing, mobility, medication reminders, and meal preparation—they are also trained to recognize early warning signs of infection, understand complex care routines, and provide emotional reassurance that helps reduce stress-related health risks. With compassionate and culturally sensitive care, a dedicated home health aide brings structure, stability, and clinical oversight into the home environment—elements that are especially critical in the vulnerable months following a sepsis episode. Families across NYC, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island rely on 7 Day Home Care’s certified aides to extend life after sepsis by promoting safety, independence, and long-term wellness right at home. 7 Day Home Care provides low cost private pay in-home care services and is an approved provider under many insurance policies, including your long term care insurance policy - throughout NYC - Manhattan , Queens , Brooklyn , and Long Island , New York. To learn more about our award winning home health aide care services for in-home Alzheimer's and dementia care, please call 516-408-0034 to schedule your free consultation.