February may be known for Valentine’s Day, but it’s also American Heart Month—a timely reminder that heart health is about more than physical wellness alone. For older adults, a healthy heart is supported by caring for the mind, body, and spirit together.
Research continues to show that emotional well-being, lifestyle habits, and spiritual connection all play a role in cardiovascular health. Here’s a closer look at how seniors can nurture heart health in ways that support the whole person.
A Heart-Healthy Mind
The connection between the brain and the heart is powerful. Chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and social isolation can increase inflammation, raise blood pressure, and contribute to heart disease. On the flip side, a healthy, active mind can support healthier heart outcomes(*1).
Ways seniors can support heart-healthy mental wellness:
- Stay socially connected through friendships, group activities, or volunteer opportunities
- Manage stress through mindfulness, breathing exercises, or gentle movement
- Keep the mind engaged with learning, hobbies, reading, or creative pursuits
- Seek support when feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or isolated
Studies show that caring for mental health doesn’t only improve mood, it can also reduce cardiovascular risk(*2).
A Heart-Healthy Body
Physical habits remain a cornerstone of heart health, and even small changes can make a noticeable difference for senior adults(*3). But it’s important not to go overboard–consistency and balance trump fad diets or extreme exercise regiments.
Heart-healthy habits for the body include:
- Staying active with walking, stretching, strength training, or low-impact exercise
- Choosing heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar with regular checkups
- Prioritizing restful sleep and daily movement
Buckner Calder Woods supports heart health through a variety of wellness programs, nutritious dining options, and fitness opportunities designed specifically for older adults.
A Heart-Healthy Spirit
Spiritual well-being is an important—and often overlooked—dimension of heart health. Studies and holistic health experts suggest that practices such as prayer, meditation, gratitude, and connection to purpose can reduce stress and promote emotional resilience, which directly supports cardiovascular health(*4).
Nurturing a heart-healthy spirit:
- Practicing prayer, meditation, or quiet reflection
- Expressing gratitude and focusing on moments of joy
- Building meaningful relationships and nurturing community
- Engaging in faith traditions or service opportunities that bring purpose
- Spiritual health supports emotional balance, which in turn positively affects both mental and physical heart health.
Supporting the Whole Heart
Heart health is most powerful when it’s approached holistically. Caring for the mind, body, and spirit together helps seniors feel stronger, more connected, and more confident in everyday life.
Senior living communities like Buckner Calder Woods intentionally focus on whole-person wellness and are uniquely positioned to support heart health through thoughtful programming, supportive relationships, and environments designed to help residents thrive.
Want to learn more about wellness and heart-healthy living? We’d love to show you how our community supports whole-person well-being—mind, body, and spirit. Contact us today to learn more, ask questions, or schedule a visit.
(*2) Harvard Health
(*4) Navigate Well