In winter, the temperature drops sharply, a season that requires special vigilance for the elders of their families who suffer from chronic hypertension. Cold weather causes vascular constriction, increases blood pressure fluctuations and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. As a result, the management of hypertension is particularly important during the winter and requires careful care in many ways.
Monitoring and access to health care
Periodic measurement of blood pressure is key to understanding the state of blood pressure for the elderly. Households should be equipped with accurate blood pressure measurement equipment, teaching elders or caregivers to correct measurement methods. Measurements are made every day at a fixed time, such as when you wake up in the morning and before you go to sleep at night, and blood pressure values are recorded in detail. If blood pressure is found to be very volatile or beyond normal range, timely medical treatment is required and medically adjusted. Winter is a period of high blood pressure which can be exacerbated, and seniors should visit the hospital regularly. The doctor adjusts the dose or type of drug to the changes in blood pressure, state of health to ensure the efficacy of the treatment. At the same time, a comprehensive physical examination, including blood protocol, blood resin, blood sugar, electrocardiograms, etc., is conducted to detect and address potential health problems in a timely manner.
2. Lifestyle management
In cold weather, the heating of elders is crucial. When going out, wear adequate clothing, hats, scarfs, gloves and avoid exposure to the head, neck and hand in cold air. The indoor temperature should be kept in a comfortable range, generally between 18 and 24°C, and the temperature can be adjusted using heating, air conditioning, etc. Sport is beneficial for people with hypertension, but the winter exercise needs to be particularly careful. Choose to exercise during warmer periods, such as noon or afternoon. Motion is based on aerobics, such as walking, Tai Chi Fist, etc., which avoids intense exercise and long periods of activity in cold environments. Each exercise time is kept at about 30 minutes, adjusted appropriately for physical condition. Regularity is also key to stabilizing blood pressure. It is necessary to help the elders to develop the habit of early sleep and to ensure adequate sleep for 7 – 8 hours per day. Avoiding emotional excitement and overwork before sleeping, the quality of sleep can be improved by relaxing the body and the body, such as by dazzling feet and listening to soft music.
3. Catering
In terms of diet, salt intake is strictly controlled. The daily salt intake should not exceed 5 grams, reducing the consumption of salty foods such as pickled foods and processed meat. Eating more of the potassium-rich foods such as bananas, potatoes and spinach helps to promote sodium ejection and stabilize blood pressure. Adequate intake of good-quality protein-rich food, such as skinny meat, fish, beans, dairy products, etc., increases physical resistance. Eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, ensure intake of vitamins and dietary fibres, promote intestinal creeping and reduce blood resin. At the same time, fat and cholesterol intake are controlled, with less consumption of high fat and cholesterol foods such as animal internal organs, fried foods, etc. During the winter, people prefer hot foods such as hot pots, but be careful about the choice of food and avoid greasy and salty.
4. Emotional management
The impact of emotional fluctuations on blood pressure cannot be ignored. Families are expected to accompany their elders, care for their psychological needs and provide adequate care and support. Seniors are encouraged to take part in recreational activities, such as chess, calligraphy, painting, etc., to enrich their lives, ease tensions, avoid violent quarrels with elders, and, when the elders experience mood fluctuations, their families are encouraged to be patient, to help them to adjust their mentalities and to remain calm and optimistic.
Winter is challenging for older generations with long-term hypertension, but with scientific monitoring, a healthy lifestyle, a decent diet, and good emotional management, we can help them to survive the season by effectively controlling blood pressure, improving the quality of life, and allowing them to feel warm and healthy in winter.
