People age 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, to have a stroke, or to develop coronary heart disease (commonly called heart disease) and heart failure. An electrical system in the heart controls the heart rate (heartbeat or pulse) and coordinates the contraction of the heart's top and bottom chambers. The left side receives blood rich with oxygen from the lungs and pumps it through arteries throughout the body. The right side pumps blood to the lungs to pick up oxygen. The heart has two sides, each with a top chamber (atrium) and a bottom chamber (ventricle). Just like an engine makes a car go, the heart keeps your body running. A normal, healthy adult heart is about the size of your clenched fist. Your heart is a strong muscle that pumps blood to your body. So now, Elena and Frank are both taking steps toward heart health. She said older women, as well as older men, can have heart problems. Reyes heard that Elena's mother had died at age 58 after a heart attack, she told Elena that she, too, should be following a heart-healthy lifestyle. Reyes asked about her own family's history of heart disease.

But, she was surprised at a recent medical appointment when Dr. The Future of Research on Aging and the HeartĮlena keeps an eye on her husband Frank to make sure he is taking care of his heart.What Can I Do to Prevent Heart Disease?.

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