February is American Heart Month, a perfect time to pause and give some extra attention to the organ that works hardest for you—your heart. As we age, heart health becomes about much more than avoiding disease. It’s about protecting energy, independence, brain health, and the ability to enjoy daily life.

Throughout this month, HealthShare will be sharing four practical, easy-to-follow articles, each focused on a simple way to support your heart—through awareness, movement, nutrition, and everyday choices. No extreme changes. No medical jargon. Just small, doable steps that can make a meaningful difference.

Think of this series as “news you can use” for your heart—designed to help you live well, stay active, and keep your heart strong for the years ahead.

Blog 1 – Heart Awareness
Your heart works quietly every day—this article helps you recognize the small warning signs that matter most as we age.

Winter Heart Health – Why It Matters

Your heart works nonstop, every day of your life. As we age, protecting heart health is one of the best ways to protect independence, energy, and quality of life—especially during winter.

Heart health is not just about avoiding a heart attack or stroke. A strong heart supports brain health, balance, stamina, and recovery from illness. It helps you stay active, social, and engaged in your community.

The good news is that small, steady habits still work—at any age. Research shows that improving diet, adding gentle movement, and managing stress can lower heart risk well into our 70s, 80s, and beyond.

Start by knowing your numbers:

• Blood pressure  —–/—-
• Cholesterol ——–
• Blood sugar ——–

These often rise quietly, without symptoms. Regular checkups help catch changes early, when they are easier to manage.

Heart health is shaped by everyday choices:

• What you eat
• How much you move
• How well you sleep
• How you manage stress

You do not need perfection. You need consistency. Short walks, less salt and sugar, enough protein (about 60 grams daily), good hydration (1 ounce per ½ your body weight daily), and staying socially connected all support your heart.

Think of heart health as an investment—not just in living longer, but in living better every day.