Every year, millions of Americans face high cholesterol.In fact, the CDC estimates that as many as 10% of all US adults age 20 or older had high cholesterol levels between 2017 and 2020.While high cholesterol can impact people of all ages, experts recommend that people over 65 get their cholesterol levels tested yearlyHeart disease, which high cholesterol can contribute to, is consistently ranked the number one cause of death in the United Statesmaking cholesterol levels an important health issue for seniors and their caregivers to be mindful of.But what is cholesterol really, and what does it mean to have high cholesterol? Do you know the difference between bad cholesterol and good cholesterol? And why should you and your aging loved ones aim to keep your cholesterol within a healthy level? This month, were answering these questions and more in honor of National Cholesterol Education Month.
Read on to get the heart-healthy facts.What is Cholesterol?Most people are familiar with discussions of cholesterol, particularly in the context of preventing and treating high cholesterol.However, not all people may know what exactly cholesterol is.The National Library of Medicine defines cholesterol as a waxy, fat-like substance that's found in all the cells in your body.One of the common myths about cholesterol is that all cholesterol is bad.
It may surprise you to learn that your body actually needs cholesterol to make Vitamin D, certain hormones, and substances that help you digest food.The problems begin when you take in too much cholesterol.Typically, your body creates all the cholesterol you need.However, eating certain foods that contain high levels of saturated fatssuch as heavily processed foods, red meat, and dairy productscan introduce extra cholesterol that your body does not need.
Maintaining a healthy diet is one way seniors and their loved ones can help keep cholesterol levels in check.Good Cholesterol Vs.Bad CholesterolIf you or your aging loved one has faced previous concerns about cholesterol levels, you may have seen the terms HDL and LDL, sometimes referred to as good and bad cholesterol respectively.Both play a role in your bodys functioning.HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein and LDL stands for low-density lipoproteins.
Dont be too intimidated by this scientific terminology.Lipoproteins are, in simple terms, a combination of fats (lipids) and proteins.(You may remember learning about these back in your high school biology class!)Although both HDL and LDL are vital to your bodys ability to function properly, it is still crucial to understand the distinction.
Levels of LDL that are too high can cause a build-up of plaque in your arteries, leading to further health issues down the line.HDL, on the other hand, helps your body get rid of cholesterol by absorbing it and carrying it to your liver, where it is later flushed out of your body.What Are the Risk Factors for High Cholesterol?There are a multitude of risk factors for high cholesterol levels, including age, sex, race or ethnicity, genetics and family history, weight, certain health conditions (such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, HIV, and lupus), and certain medications.Cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older and while men are at greater risk than women between ages 20 and 39, womens risk goes up after menopause.If high blood pressure runs in your family, your loved one is taking certain steroids or chemotherapy medicines, or you are Asian American or non-Hispanic White, your risk is further increased.While some risk factors are out of your control, the most common cause of high cholesterol is having an unhealthy lifestyle.
Having a diet high in saturated fats, living a sedentary lifestyle with a lack of physical activity, drinking too much alcohol, and smoking can all contribute to higher total cholesterol levels as well as both higher levels of LDL cholesterol and lower levels of HDL cholesterol.In addition to the aforementioned risk factors, stress can exacerbate the issue.Stress, especially severe and/or chronic stress, can raise the levels of certain hormones known as corticosteroids, which can cause your body to make more cholesterol.Knowing how to identify the signs of stress in your senior loved ones life and help them find ways to regulate and manage their stress can go a long way in support of their mental and emotional health, but their heart health too.How Can High Cholesterol Be Prevented and Treated?High cholesterol levels that are left untreated can lead to serious health problems.
High cholesterol contributes to plaque build-up in your arteries, which can then become narrow and blocked over time.Plaque build-up can lead to blood clots, chest pain, heart attacks, arterial disease, and stroke.Older adults are at greater risk of life-threatening heart disease and related health problems.Unfortunately, there are usually no warnings, signs, or symptoms that you or your older loved one have high cholesterol, making it crucial to have regular testing.
Fortunately, the cholesterol test consists of a relatively simple blood draw.Coordinate with your senior loved ones medical team to ensure they can get this important test and properly prepare for it should they need it quickly.High cholesterol can often be lowered through heart-healthy lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, weight management, and a healthy diet.If these lifestyle changes dont lower your cholesterol level enough on their own, a daily medication regimen may be needed.The Bottom LineCholesterol is an important substance in our bodies that helps keep us functioning, but in excess can contribute to severe health issues, including heart attacks, stroke, and heart disease.
Risk factors include age, family history of high cholesterol, a diet that is high in saturated fats, certain medical conditions, an inactive lifestyle, smoking, and stress.High cholesterol does not have signs or symptoms, so it is important to get tested for it.Adults over 65 should get a high cholesterol test annually.Learn how community living can help seniors prolong independence and maintain a healthy lifestyle while aging! For additional tips on senior health and lifestyle issues,check out our blog.
To find out how United Methodist Homes provides a wealth of offerings and opportunities to support the health and well-being of our residents,contact us todayorschedule a complimentary visit now.To find out how United Methodist Homes provides a wealth of offerings and opportunities to support the health and well-being of our residents, contact us today or schedule a complimentary visit now.
Publisher: Assisted & Independent ( Read More )
