Flower displays, teddy bears, and heart-shaped candy boxes—Valentine’s Day certainly knows how to make an entrance.
However, there’s much more to celebrate in February than Cupid. In fact, there’s an entire month’s worth.
February is American Heart Month: the perfect time to learn about the risks associated with heart disease and the preventative actions you can take.
The Heart of Heart Disease
Every 40 seconds someone has a heart attack in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heart disease is the leading cause of death and affects all ages. However, seniors face an increased risk.
There are several types of heart disease. The CDC states the most common is coronary heart disease, which results from blocked or narrow arteries. Other types are heart failure, rhythm disorders, and structural heart diseases.
Most types of heart disease are preventable, and it’s never too early to build healthy habits—especially when you could do so under warm Florida sunshine. Conveniently located in the The Villages® community, Sumter Senior Living provides you with the freedom to live your best life, exactly as you want. With a variety of living options as well as wellness, cultural, and educational programs offered daily, this is the place for you to live your healthiest life—free from maintenance, chores, and worries.
Love What You Eat, With All Your Heart
A healthy diet is key to preventing heart disease. Green leafy vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and foods loaded with omega-3s (fish, vegetable oils, nuts) are essential components, according to The Mended Hearts, Inc.
However, shopping for healthier foods is easier said than done. Driving to the store, plowing through crowds, ensuring food is sourced from reputable suppliers—it takes plenty of time and effort. That’s why Sumter Senior Living brings healthy food to you.
In partnership with The Villages Grown, Sumter Senior Living offers fresh ingredients in meals tailored for optimal nutrition and unique dietary needs. Locally sourced, dining at Sumter Senior Living is as close to picking the vegetables yourself.
Enjoy a healthy and delicious pick-me-up whenever you like with all-inclusive dining. Sumter Senior Living’s talented team ensures each meal is fit for you, so you can focus on what matters most: savoring every moment.
Exercise to Your Heart’s Content
When you hear the word “exercise,” you may imagine high-intensity activities such as running or lifting heavy weights. But there are simpler ways to exercise. Even stretching during a commercial break can count towards your daily goal.
The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes (or as recommended by your doctor) of moderate exercise per day. You could spend the time walking, swimming, or dancing; what matters most is that you are up and moving.
If needed, you can exercise in 10-minute increments throughout the day. Take the stairs, park farther away in the parking lot, or walk around the house after reading to slowly add exercise into your routine.
With exercise, consistency is key. The American Heart Association states routine exercise has valuable health benefits such as lowering blood pressure, boosting levels of good cholesterol, improving blood flow, maintaining a healthy weight, preventing bone loss, and reducing stress.
Whether you prefer exercising with others or on your own, Sumter Senior Living accommodates your fitness goals and interests. Take a water weights class, dance with chair zumba, or exercise at your own pace in the fitness center. At Sumter Senior Living, you can live healthily in a way that works for you.
Love Your Mind
While physical activity is important, mental health is too. The American Heart Association reports negative mental health, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Sumter Senior Living offers a variety of wellness programs and social activities so you can keep your mind engaged in positive habits. Relax with the Coloring Club or pamper yourself at the salon. A happy mind is a happy heart.
A Place Where You Belong
Sumter Senior Living is proud to offer a continuum of living options to suit all needs and preferences, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care all on one beautifully landscaped campus.
Managed by Grace Management, Inc. (GMI), a leader in providing the best senior living experiences, Sumter Senior Living has been able to elevate industry standards by delivering exceptional living experiences while providing the resources and information seniors and their loved ones need to make important life decisions. Grace Management, Inc. is a subsidiary of CPF Living Communities and is ranked in ASHA’s 50 largest seniors housing owners.
For more information or to schedule a personalized visit, please call (352) 674-3600 or visit www.SumterSeniorLiving.com.
Sumter Senior Living
1490 Killingsworth Way,
The Villages, Florida 32162
352.707.9959
www.sumterseniorliving.com
Assisted Living License Number: 12227