According to the Mayo Clinic, getting older is one of the risk factors for having a heart attack. That means that older adults are more likely to have a heart attack than younger people. As a family caregiver to a senior, it’s important to know the signs of a heart attack so that you can get them the help they need.

 

Risk Factors for Heart Attack

Knowing if your older family member has additional risk factors for heart attack can help you to be more vigilant about watching for signs of a heart attack. In addition, it can allow you to look for ways to reduce their risks. Some risk factors for heart attack are:

  • Tobacco Use: Tobacco use of any kind increases the chances of having a heart attack. If your aging relative uses tobacco, encourage them to quit.
  • High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages blood vessels.
  • High Cholesterol: People with high cholesterol may develop narrowed arteries.
  • Family History: Seniors who have other family members that have had heart attacks are more likely to have them as well.
  • Lack of Exercise: Older adults who don’t engage in regular physical activity are putting themselves at risk for heart attack.


Heart Attack Warning Signs

People experience different symptoms of heart attack, but the common signs include:

  • A pressure, pain, or squeezing sensation in the chest. It may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.
  • Digestive symptoms, like nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or pain in the abdomen.
  • Feeling short of breath.
  • Breaking out in a cold sweat.
  • Fatigue.
  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.

The symptoms of a heart attack tend to be different between men and women. However, chest pain is the most common pain for both genders. Women, though, are more likely to have less dramatic symptoms, such as shortness of breath, back pain, jaw pain, or nausea and vomiting.

If you are concerned about your older family member having a heart attack, elderly care can stay with them when you are away. Not only can the elderly care provider watch for signs of a heart attack and call 911, but they can also assist the senior around the home by performing light housekeeping duties and preparing meals. Elderly care can also help your aging relative to manage medical conditions that may make a heart attack more likely, such as high blood pressure. An elderly care provider can remind them to take medications and follow other advice given by the doctor.

 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Homecare in Oceano, CA, please contact the friendly staff at San Luis Obispo Caregivers.
Call today: (805) 748-2614

Sources
https://www.heart.org/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/


David Wood, Owner, SLO Caregivers
David Wood, Owner, SLO Caregivers

San Luis Obispo Caregivers was created in memory of my Grandfather, Tracy Gordon Wood II. My mission is to honor him by providing trustworthy, compassionate, and competitively priced caregiving services to seniors in my community. After 25 years in the financial industry and the decision to leave behind a successful 6-year position as the Chief Operating Officer of SESLOC Federal Credit Union, I created San Luis Obispo Home Care. This decision served my desire to make a difference and support the growing needs of seniors in my community. As my business grew and I leaned heavily on my financial background, I realized there was a much more cost-effective way to provide seniors with the care they deserve. This realization led to the creation of San Luis Obispo Caregivers, a referral agency and SLO Senior Placement, a free resource for families looking for independent or assisted living options for seniors. Ultimately, I listen, assess your situation and recommend various options that are available for your family.