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Senior Times - February 2026 Page 3Exceptional Heart CareWhen it comes to your heart, you want the best. That%u2019s why more people choose Bronson for heart care than any other health system in southwest Michigan. Our cardiology team in Battle Creek is dedicated to quality and works closely with you and your primary care provider to develop a personalized plan of care. Whether your heart needs medical management, a procedure or surgery, when you choose one of us, you get the skill, compassion and fierce determination of a top team of experts!Learn more at bronsonhealth.com/heart. February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on caring for the heart at every stage of life. For older adults, heart health can feel complicated, especially when managing medications, chronic conditions, or physical changes that come with aging. The good news is that protecting your heart does not require dramatic lifestyle overhauls. Small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference over time.As we age, the heart and blood vessels naturally become less flexible. This raises the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol may also become more common. If this seems scary, don%u2019t get discouraged. Research consistently shows that healthy choices made later in life still improve heart function, energy levels, and overall quality of life.Move More, in Ways that Work for You %u2013 Regular movement is one of the most powerful ways to support heart health. You do not need intense workouts to see benefits. Simple activities can strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and support balance. Some great options include:%u2022 Daily walks, indoors or outdoors%u2022 Gardening or light household chores%u2022 Stretching or chair exercisesIf a long walk or a 30-minute stretching class is too much, try short activity sessions throughout the day. Even 10 minutes at a time adds up! The key is choosing activities you enjoy and can maintain.Eat Simply and Mindfully %u2013 Nutrition plays a key role in heart health, especially as we age. Rather than restrictive diets, focus on balanced meals that support long-term wellness:%u2022 Fruits and vegetables%u2022 Whole grains%u2022 Lean proteins such as fish, poultry, or beans%u2022 Healthy fats like olive oil or nutsLimiting sodium is especially important, as excess salt can raise blood pressure. Reading food labels and choosing lower-sodium options can make a big difference. Staying hydrated is another often overlooked habit that supports both heart and overall health.Keep Track of Your Numbers %u2013 Managing key health numbers is essential for protecting your heart. Regular checkups allow your health care provider to identify changes early and adjust care as needed. Important areas to monitor include:%u2022 Blood pressure%u2022 Cholesterol levels%u2022 Blood sugarTaking medications exactly as prescribed is critical, even when you feel well. If side effects or costs are a concern, talk with your health care team. There may be alternative options.Prioritize Sleep and Manage Stress %u2013 Good sleep and stress management are just as important as diet and exercise. Not getting enough or getting low quality sleep as well as ongoing stress can strain the heart and raise blood pressure. Simple strategies can help. Try:%u2022 Keep a consistent sleep schedule%u2022 Limit caffeine later in the day%u2022 Create a calming bedtime routine%u2022 Spend time outdoors or listening to music%u2022 Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, prayer, or meditationThese small steps can help calm the body and support heart health.Stay Socially Connected %u2013 Social connection is a powerful but often overlooked factor in heart health. Loneliness and isolation have been linked to higher rates of heart disease, especially in older adults. Staying connected supports emotional well-being and encourages healthy habits. This can include:%u2022 Spending time with friends or family%u2022 Participating in faith or community groups%u2022 Volunteering%u2022 Making regular phone calls%u2022 Meeting for shared activitiesProgress, Not Perfection %u2013 The most important message during American Heart Month is that it is never too late to care for your heart. Progress matters more than perfection. Choosing one or two small changes and building from there can lead to lasting benefits. Partnering with your primary care provider or cardiology team can help you set realistic goals and stay on track.Your heart has carried you through decades of life%u2019s moments. This February, take a few simple steps to return the favor. Small habits practiced daily can help keep your heart strong for years to come.Take the Next Step Toward a HeartHealthy Life %u2013 Small changes are easier to make with support. Join one of Bronson%u2019s free, virtual Healthy Living or Healing Kitchen classes. Topics range from heart-healthy nutrition and cooking to staying active and building meaningful connections. Visit bronsonhealth.com/classes to find a class that interests you.Need a Primary Care Provider? Your health and well-being start with routine health care. From preventive screenings and routine checkups to managing chronic conditions like heart disease, Bronson doctors are here to keep you and your loved ones healthy. With convenient locations across southwest Michigan, Bronson makes it easy to access the care you need, close to home. To find a primary care doctor, visit bronsonhealth.com/find-a-doc. bronsonhealth.com/doctors/emily-ruimveld.SMALL HEART-HEALTHY HABITS THAT MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE AFTER 60By: Emily Ruimveld, NP, Bronson Cardiothoracic Surgery Specialists