February is Heart Health Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular wellness and encourage healthier lifestyles. At Trinity Senior Services, heart health is a top priority, with personalized care and wellness programs designed to support seniors in maintaining strong hearts and active lives. Our compassionate team focuses on prevention, education, and individualized support, making heart health a daily priority. We reached out to our very own experts Jackie Grossoehme, Director of Rehabilitation, and Lauren Shore, Milwaukee Catholic Home’s Director of Dining services and Registered Dietitian for some tips on how to make heart health a main focus.
Jackie recommends trying to incorporate the “5 for 5” theory – 5 minutes of walking 5 times per week. Walking helps improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and strengthen the heart muscle. Regular short walks can also reduce the risk of heart disease by managing cholesterol levels and improving overall cardiovascular function. Additionally, walking promotes better blood flow, reduces stress, and supports weight management—all of which contribute to a healthier heart.
The beauty of the 5-for-5 approach is its accessibility, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines without feeling overwhelming. Try including a short walk during your lunch break, or when leaving the house, track a 5-minute walk outside before getting into your car. Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant long-term health benefits.
Another important practice to work into your daily routine is stretching. See image below for some of the recommended stretches to support overall mobility, ultimately keeping your heart healthy.
Lauren Shore, Milwaukee Catholic Home’s Director of Dining Services and Registered Dietitian says that what we eat matters when it comes to heart health. See our TSS grocery list and follow these tips for heart-healthy eating:
Get more fiber. Eat vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains to add fiber to your diet.
Eat less saturated fat. Cut back on fatty meats and high-fat dairy products. Limit foods like pizza, burgers, and creamy sauces or gravy. Click here for more detailed information.
Cut down on sodium. Read the Nutrition Facts label and choose foods that are lower in sodium. Look for foods labeled “low sodium” or “no salt added” — like some canned soups, canned vegetables, packaged meals, and snack foods. Click here to learn more.
Find delicious and nutritious heart-healthy recipes below to support your well-being! The pesto recipe is a favorite, and can easily be added to baked chicken, vegetables, pasta, or sandwiches to boost omega-3 intake.
At Trinity Senior Services, we are dedicated to supporting seniors on their journey to better heart health. From wellness programs to personalized care, our team is here to provide guidance and resources needed for a healthier, happier life. Remember that caring for your heart is a lifelong commitment but small, daily choices, like staying active, eating well, and managing stress, can make a big difference in your overall well-being.
