February is Heart Health Month
February is Heart Health Month and Brookridge residents are learning about how to stay heart healthy.
This month, Wellness Director Dana Reynolds encourages all residents to take heart health seriously — and to start by listening to their bodies.
“Listen to your body and honor what it’s telling you," Dana said in her message to residents.
Know the Signs of a Heart Attack
Heart attack symptoms can differ from person to person, but the most common signs include:
Tightness or pain in the chest
Shortness of breath
Pain radiating to the jaw or down the left arm
Cold sweats
Dizziness
Nausea
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart becomes blocked. If you or someone around you experiences these symptoms, seek emergency help immediately.
Understanding the Heart
The heart is a beautifully complex organ with four chambers, electrical signals, and valves that keep blood flowing in a steady, coordinated rhythm. This rhythm delivers oxygen and nutrients while clearing waste — work the body depends on every moment.
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death for both men and women in the U.S. The hopeful news: it is also one of the most preventable chronic conditions.
Know the Signs of a Stroke
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain becomes blocked. Warning signs include:
Sudden severe headache
Facial drooping
Numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
Confusion
Trouble walking
If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.
Simple Ways to Care for Your Heart
Heart‑healthy habits are within everyone’s reach. Dana offers these key recommendations:
Get regular physicals and talk to your doctor about your personal risk factors.
Maintain a BMI under 30 through balanced nutrition.
Eat for heart health — such as choosing poultry or fish once a week instead of red meat and filling your plate with fruits and vegetables.
Aim for Total Cholesterol under 200
Keep fasting blood glucose under 100
Move your body daily. Getting your heart rate up for just 15 minutes a day makes a difference.
Heart Health Month Activities at Brookridge
Residents are encouraged to make February a month of movement, connection, and heart‑healthy choices. Here’s what’s happening:
Walking Club: Our Walking Club is in full swing and open to all residents who want to stay active with friends and neighbors.
Exercise Classes all month long: Join us for guided classes designed to boost cardiovascular health and overall well‑being.
Step‑Tracking Challenge, February 9–28: A friendly competition to motivate and inspire! Track your daily steps, cheer on your neighbors, and celebrate your accomplishments at the end of the month.
Let’s Commit to a Heart‑Healthy February
Brookridge is proud to champion wellness and support residents in making healthy choices — this month and every month. The Heart Health Event was a success Feb. 4.
It was run in partnership with Functional Pathways, providing information to residents from the rehab team and from the American Heart Association. Attendees showed their support by wearing red.