You may not notice it happening, but your heart changes as you get older – and those changes can make you more vulnerable to disease.
“Your arteries can stiffen, your blood pressure can rise, and your risk for heart disease increases,” says Chad Conner, MD, a cardiologist with Hartford HealthCare’s Heart & Vascular Institute. “But there’s a lot you can do to protect your heart at every age.”
Here’s how to keep your heart beating strong, no matter your age.
You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic to help your heart. Regular movement strengthens your heart muscle, improves circulation and lowers blood pressure.
“Even simple activity like brisk walking can make a big difference,” says Dr. Conner. Aim for about 30 minutes a day, five days a week – but if that feels like too much, start small and work your way up over time.
The goal is consistency, not perfection. Find what you enjoy, and stick with it.
