Your heart works hard every day, pumping blood and oxygen around your body to keep you moving, thinking, and living well. Looking after your heart helps you stay active, independent, and feel your best.
Why Heart Health Matters
A healthy heart supports:
- Better energy levels
- Easier breathing
- Stronger muscles
- Overall wellbeing as we age
The good news is that small changes make a big difference.
Foods That Support Heart Health
- Omega-3 fats (salmon, sardines, walnuts, flaxseed)
- Help protect blood vessels and support healthy circulation
- Magnesium-rich foods (leafy greens, nuts, seeds, wholegrains)
- Support healthy blood pressure and heart rhythm
- Polyphenol-rich foods (berries, green tea, olive oil, cocoa)
- Help keep blood vessels strong and healthy
- Probiotic foods (yoghurt, fermented foods)
- Support overall wellbeing and heart health
How Movement Protects Your Heart
Regular movement helps keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. Each time you move, your body:
- Improves blood flow and oxygen delivery
- Keeps blood vessels flexible
- Helps manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Supports better sleep and energy
Moving regularly matters more than how hard you exercise. Small amounts done often are very effective.
Easy Ways to Get Moving
You don’t need a gym or long workouts:
- Short walks around the house or garden
- Standing and stretching each hour
- Light strength or chair-based exercises
Even a few minutes of movement each day helps protect your heart. Speak to a physiotherapist for support in designing an exercise plan tailored to you and your health.
The Power of Measuring
Regular checks of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar help show how well your heart is working. These simple tests can find early warning signs before you feel unwell.
A Heart Health Check with your GP is an easy way to understand your risk. It usually includes:
- A blood pressure check
- A blood test for cholesterol and blood sugar
- A discussion about family history and lifestyle
Your GP can then help you make small changes or start treatment if needed.
Everyone aged 45 and over (or 35 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) should have a heart health check every year.
Reach out to the Home Care Services team on 13 18 19 to learn more about how we can support you.
