Celebrate Heart Month with Reigate and Crawley

February is Heart Month, a perfect time to focus on lifelong healthy habits that support your heart and overall well-being. As we age, maintaining these habits becomes essential to staying active, independent, and happy. At Right at Home Reigate and Crawley, we believe that caring for your heart doesn’t just mean preventing problems—it’s about celebrating a healthy, active life at every age.

Why Lifelong Healthy Habits Matter?

Keeping active, eating well, and exercising your body and mind all help to minimise the impact of health conditions associated with ageing. While ageing can bring some physical challenges, it’s not all bad news. With age comes experience, wisdom, and cherished memories. At Right at Home, we don’t view these changes as "problems" but as opportunities to care for our bodies and celebrate life.

Whether you’ve been active all your life or are starting new routines later in life, maintaining healthy habits can:

• Reduce the risk of age-related health issues.
• Improve your mood and mental well-being.
• Enhance your energy levels and independence.

How to Stay Active as You Age

It’s natural to adjust your routine as your body changes over time. Here are some common challenges older adults face and how to overcome them:

• Decreased muscle strength: Incorporate gentle resistance exercises or light weightlifting to maintain muscle mass.
• Balance and mobility issues: Try yoga or balance exercises to stay steady on your feet.
• Joint pain or stiffness: Opt for low-impact activities like swimming or cycling.
• Reduced energy levels: Listen to your body and start with small, manageable goals.

Even a brisk walk or gentle stretches can make a difference. Gradual, consistent activity is key to rebuilding stamina and maintaining flexibility.

Getting Back to Exercise After a Break 

Life can sometimes interrupt our routines—whether it’s a holiday, illness, or bad weather. If you’re returning to exercise after a break, take it slow and follow these tips:

• Keep moving: Even small activities like a short walk or light stretches can ease you back into a routine.
• Reintroduce your routine gradually: Start with gentle exercises and listen to your body.
• Ask for help: Consult a GP or caregiver for advice on suitable exercises.
• Join a group class: Exercising with others can boost motivation and make it more enjoyable.

If you’ve had time in hospital and need support getting back to your usual activities, our hospital-to-home service can help. Our caregivers provide tailored care to ease you back into your daily routine safely.

Adjusting Your Routine as You Age

Small adjustments to your routine can help prevent age-related health issues and improve your overall quality of life. Here’s how:

• Prioritise heart health: Reduce sugar, cut down on salt, and choose unsaturated fats over saturated ones.
• Stay active: Aim for 150 minutes of exercise per week. Low-impact options like walking, swimming, or stretching are great for joint health.
• Support mobility and flexibility: Include exercises that improve range of motion to reduce stiffness and manage arthritis pain.

How Right at Home Can Support You

Preventative health care is about preserving your quality of life and independence. At Right at Home Reigate and Crawley, we’re here to support you with:

• Developing and maintaining healthy routines.
• Assistance with exercise at home or finding local fitness events.
• Meal preparation to ensure a balanced, heart-healthy diet.
• Accompanying you to regular health check-ups.

If you or a loved one would like help creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, contact Right at Home Reigate and Crawley. Our friendly caregivers are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Let’s celebrate Heart Month by making small, positive changes to keep your heart happy and healthy for years to come!