The Family Business A SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTHCARE AND COMMUNITY

Heart health goes beyond food and exercise. It also includes managing stress, staying connected, and caring for emotional well-being — especially as we age. Supporting your heart means supporting your whole self. Small daily actions can strengthen not only your body, but also your sense of calm and connection.

💡 Quick Wellness Tips

• Heart-Healthy Foods: Add berries, leafy greens, beans, nuts, and fish when possible — even small servings help.
• Gentle Movement Matters: Walking, stretching, or light chair exercises can support heart health and mobility.
• Calm the Body: Slow breathing helps reduce stress — breathe in for 4 seconds, out for 6.

🥗 Heart-Smart Snack

Apple slices with peanut or almond butter — a simple, affordable snack that supports heart health and provides lasting energy.

🤍 Caregiver Corner: Supporting Heart Health This Month

Caring for a loved one or client means caring for their heart — both physically and emotionally. Heart health isn’t only about medications or appointments; it’s also shaped by daily routines, stress levels, movement, and connection. This month, focus on gentle support and small, meaningful actions that make a difference.

🩺 Practical Heart-Healthy Care Tips

• Encourage Gentle Movement: Short walks, chair exercises, or light stretching can improve circulation and mood. Even 5–10 minutes counts.
• Support Heart-Smart Meals: Help patients choose foods lower in salt and added sugar when possible. Simple swaps — baked instead of fried, water instead of sugary drinks — go a long way.
• Watch for Changes: Pay attention to shortness of breath, swelling in feet or ankles, unusual fatigue, or chest discomfort, and report concerns promptly.

🧠 Emotional & Mental Support Matters

• Reduce Stress Together: Practice slow breathing with your patient — inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 6. Calm moments support heart health.
• Promote Connection: Encourage phone calls, visits, or shared activities to reduce loneliness, which can impact heart health.
• Offer Reassurance: A calm presence and kind words can lower anxiety and support emotional well-being.

🕒 Daily Routine Reminders

• Medication Support: Help patients take medications as prescribed and note any side effects.
• Encourage Rest: Quality sleep supports heart health — aim for consistent bedtimes and a peaceful environment.
• Hydration Check: Offer water regularly, especially if appetite is low.

💚 Caregiver Self-Care Reminder

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take time to stretch, hydrate, and rest when you can. A healthy caregiver is better able to provide compassionate care.