September is National Cholesterol Education Month

In September, Great Care joins the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in recognizing National Cholesterol Education Month. The CDC recognizes the month as a good time to have blood cholesterol checked and take steps to lower it if it is high. Especially for seniors.

“National Cholesterol Education Month is also a good time to learn about lipid profiles and about food and lifestyle choices that help you reach personal cholesterol goals,” the CDC says.

In specifying how many Americans have high cholesterol, the CDC reports that more than 102 million adults (20 years or older) in the U.S. have total cholesterol levels at or above 200 mg/dL, which is above healthy levels. More than 35 million of these people have levels of 240 mg/dL or higher, which puts them at high risk for heart disease, the CDC says.

“High cholesterol usually doesn’t have any symptoms. As a result, many people do not know that their cholesterol levels are too high,” the CDC says. “However, doctors can do a simple blood test to check your cholesterol. High cholesterol can be controlled through lifestyle changes or if it is not enough, through medications.”

High cholesterol, as well as high blood pressure, can be risk factors for coronary heart disease. Obesity, smoking, diabetes, and family history are also concerning factors. The CDC defines cholesterol as a waxy, fat-like substance found in many foods and our bodies, which needs cholesterol to function normally and makes all that you need.

“Too much cholesterol can build up in your arteries,” the CDC says. “After a while, these deposits narrow your arteries, putting you at risk for heart disease and stroke. It’s important to check your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S.”

So how often should cholesterol be checked? According to the CDC, the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommends adults 20 years or older have their cholesterol checked every 5 years.

“A simple blood test called a lipoprotein profile can measure your total cholesterol levels, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein, or “bad” cholesterol), HDL (high-density lipoprotein, or “good” cholesterol), and triglycerides,” the CDC says.

The National Cholesterol Education Program has developed specific recommendations about cholesterol treatment for people at increased risk, such as those with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease. For those with high cholesterol, lowering it can include your doctor prescribing medications for treatment. Also, cholesterol levels can be lowered through lifestyle changes:

· Low-fat and high-fiber food (Eat more fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and whole grains).

· For adults, getting at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week. For those aged 6-17, getting 1 hour or more of physical activity each day.

· Maintain a healthy weight.

· Don’t smoke or quit if you smoke.

 

Cholesterol Resources

· CDC’s Cholesterol Web Site 

· Cholesterol Fact Sheet

 

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs, including respite care. Great Care is a non-medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Fishers, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (888) 240-9101 for more information.

About Julie S.

Julie Sullivan is the Owner at Great Care of Indianapolis, Indiana.
Great Care is a licensed, personal services agency, providing in-home care services to the Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding areas. We serve the personal health and daily care needs of seniors or individuals who prefer to stay at home, but require assistance with everyday activities, such as dressing, personal hygiene, meal preparation, laundry or errands. Our team of certified nurse aids and home health aids can provide you with personalized, in-home care services to meet your needs, including:
• Daytime hourly in-home care
• Temporary or post-hospital respite care
• 24-hour, around-the-clock home care
• Morning and evening care
• Overnight / Slumber care
In addition, we offer our Care Compass service, to assist in setting the course for the next stage in your loved ones life. We guide you through the currents of aging, and help you find your true north. Our licensed nurses, with experience in hospice and geriatric care, will help guide you through the complex and often sensitive journey of selecting an in-home care service, and will provide a smooth transition to a new way of life for your loved one, without the anxiety and fear.
Our current nursing and management team has more than 75 years of combined experience in the home healthcare services industry. All of our caregivers are bonded, insured and screened thoroughly, so you know you’ll be receiving the greatest care possible. That’s why we stand by our mission: to deliver the same, quality care we expect for ourselves and our loved ones.