February is American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, a time to highlight heart health and raise awareness about one of the most serious health issues facing Americans today. Each year, Wear Red Day on February 6 encourages us to wear red in support of heart disease awareness and to ignite conversations that can truly save lives.

The leading cause of death among adults over ages 65

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among adults aged 65 and older. Alarmingly, in the U.S., someone dies of cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds. In fact, nearly 70% of adults over 65 live with some form of cardiovascular disease, and the risk increases with age due to factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and decreased physical activity. Women, in particular, are often under-diagnosed because their symptoms may look different from the “classic” signs we typically recognize.

Common heart attack symptoms

May include chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, cold sweats, and unusual fatigue. For older adults and women, symptoms can be subtler, such as sudden exhaustion, indigestion-like discomfort, or unexplained weakness.

Get help immediately!

If you or someone else experiences heart pain or suspected heart attack symptoms, do not wait. Call 911 immediately. Chewing an aspirin (if not allergic and advised by a physician) while waiting for emergency help may help, but it should never replace urgent medical care. Quick action can dramatically reduce heart damage and save a life.

This Heart Month, wearing red is more than a symbol, it’s a reminder to listen to your body, recognize the signs, and prioritize heart health at every age. The American Heart Association offers many helpful health resources and CPR training courses.

The importance of being proactive

Along with focusing on heart health, Hurley Elder Care Law also advocates for proactive estate planning. As the saying goes, it is important to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Call us at 404-843-0121 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced elder law attorneys. We have four convenient offices in Atlanta, Duluth, Peachtree City, and Woodstock, and we offer virtual meetings. Call us today!