BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Besides celebrating Valentine’s Day, February is Heart Health Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the country.

Some 630,000 Americans die from heart diseases each year, but many of those deaths are preventable.

Changes in the heart and blood vessels that happen with age may increase a person’s risk of heart disease and related health problems. Heart disease is a major cause of disability that can limit activity and erode quality of life for older people.

Some risk factors for heart disease may also be linked to cognitive health, including a person’s risk of dementia later in life. Taking better care of your overall cardiovascular health can help protect both your brain and your heart.

Givens Highland Farms, a Life Plan Community in Black Mountain, supports active lifestyles for its residents. The community promotes education as one of the best ways heart diseases can be prevented. Learning how to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of heart disease and its risk factors.

A good night’s sleep

Lack of sleep or getting poor-quality sleep increases the risk of having high blood pressure, heart disease, and other medical conditions.

Eat well

A flexible and balanced eating plan can help lower your high blood pressure and improve your cholesterol.

Control weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and can help you prevent and control many diseases and conditions.

Get physical

Getting enough physical activity helps to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Adults should spend at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) each week doing physical activity.

Stop smoking!

Any amount of smoking, even light or occasional smoking, damages your heart and blood vessels.

Following a healthy lifestyle and following guidance from healthcare providers, seniors can significantly improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. It’s important to remember that every small step counts towards living a healthier, active and fulfilling life.