Poor Circulation in the Elderly

Circulation is one of the vital processes of our human bodies. The circulatory system, also known as the vascular or cardiovascular system, transports a myriad of life-giving necessities throughout our bodies. Oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients and blood cells provide nourishment that we simply cannot survive without. Health circulation is a crucial component of our ability to live a healthy life, but the circulation of blood, and hence the things blood carries, can become more difficult as we age.

One reason for poor circulation as we get older is simply that it becomes more difficult with age for our bodies to push blood back “uphill” to the heart. This is why leg and foot circulation becomes a concern for elderly persons.Cholesterol naturally builds up in our bodies over time, and they can begin to narrow as we age, which also contributes to decrease in circulation. A sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate the problem of poor circulation, as well as diabetes and smoking. These conditions also contribute to things like high blood pressure and heart disease.

There are some circulatory issues that are not related to age, peripheral artery disease is one. The arteries are more narrow which causes blood flow to the limbs to be reduced. If left untreated, peripheral artery disease can lead to more serious medical problems like tissue death or infection, even stroke or a heart attack. It is important to see your healthcare provider if you are experiencing anything that you think may be related to poor circulation.

While the narrowing of arteries and poor circulation may be natural results of aging for some, it’s often the case that an underlying factor is causing poor circulation. For example, a person who is not sufficiently managing their diabetes can suffer from peripheral neuropathy, which can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to ensure that medical diagnoses are being managed and treated effectively can go a long way to keeping the circulatory system healthy and functioning well.

If you or a loved one are suffering from the discomforts of poor circulation (swollen feet or ankles, pain or cramping in the limbs or a feeling of heavy legs), there is no reason to suffer in silence. If you’ve visited your doctor to ensure there is not an underlying medical condition that requires immediate treatment, there are lots of natural ways to keep the vital circulatory system working properly:

• Shake off the sedentary lifestyle. Exercise goes a long way to keep blood moving through your legs and thus throughout your whole system. Easy walks or even just tapping your feet from toe to heel can make a difference. The more active you can be, the more positive benefits your circulatory system will reap.
• Stop smoking. There are no good benefits or health rewards from smoking. Kicking the habit, while a difficult change for many long-time smokers, is a good step in the right direction for all sorts of health concerns. Your heart will thank you, and your circulatory system will have an easier time moving healthier oxygen and blood throughout your body.
• Improve your diet. Ask your doctor or the culinary team at Evergreen Senior Living what foods are available that can improve your circulation. Adding more fruits (especially oranges!) and vegetables is always a positive change, but foods high in Vitamin E are particularly good for improving circulation in that it helps prevent blood clots from forming. Salmon, watermelon and avocados have also been linked to improving heart health and circulation.
• Kick your feet up. That’s right – elevate your feet or enjoy soaking your feet in warm water. This can help alleviate short-term swelling and pain caused by poor circulation.

Speak with the wellness team at Evergreen Senior Living if you are experiencing any symptoms or pain from poor circulation, so they can be sure to give you the medical attention you need. Evergreen offers a wide selection of activities, events and outings that provide opportunities to get up and get moving. Learn more about our communities by visiting our website at www.EvergreenSLC.com.