Assisted Living Provides the Facts about Monitoring Blood Pressure

As one ages it becomes increasingly important to maintain proper exercise and eating habits. By developing a healthy diet and exercising regularly you can reduce the risk for health complications. However, it is also important to have regular doctors appointments to make sure you are continuously in good health. One simple thing to pay attention to is monitoring your blood pressure. While this may not always be the first thing on people's minds to check it is incredibly important to do so. Many assisted living communities provide free blood pressure checks or on site doctors that can quickly check and monitor your blood pressure for you.

Three Good Reasons You Should Keep Track of Your Blood Pressure: 

1.  Blood pressure problems are easy to overlook. Your blood pressure is “out of sight and out of mind”. There are no visible signs of high or low blood pressure and few physical symptoms. Because of this, it is important to check your blood pressure on a regular basis. Blood pressure problems are a “silent condition”.  

2.  Low blood pressure can contribute to feelings of dizziness or weakness, which can increase the risk of falls and other injuries, but many people attribute these feelings to other things, such as being overtired. 

3.  High blood pressure may cause headaches as one of the few symptoms and can lead to:

• An overworked heart
• Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
• Kidney disease
• Hardening of the arteries

In addition to taking your blood pressure, nurses may also check your weight. Doing so on a regular basis provides the opportunities to discuss:

• Weight ranges for your personal optimal health

• Ideas on how to get moving and increase activity

• Awareness of healthy meal choices/how to reduce salt consumption

• Importance in complying with physician recommended medications

• Support for lifestyle changes

All the above is a prescription for success in managing your health and feeling your best every day.  Monitoring these simple things will help you and your doctor create an optimal health plan for you to maintain your health.

To learn more about the services provided at United Methodist Homes Assisted and Independent Living please visit our website or contact us, we would love to further assist you!