Heart-Healthy Habits: Managing Hypertension at Home

July 31, 2026

At Nova Leap Home Health, we support our clients in many aspects of their health and well-being. In addition to assisting with activities of daily living, our nurses provide education on diagnoses, medications, nutrition, and exercise to help clients manage chronic conditions and maintain their independence.

One of the most common conditions we help clients manage is hypertension, or high blood pressure. Ideally, a healthy blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) measures the pressure when the heart beats, while the bottom number (diastolic) measures the pressure when the heart rests between beats.

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Although healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce this risk, the natural aging process also plays a role. As we age, our blood vessels become stiffer and less elastic, increasing resistance to blood flow and causing blood pressure to rise.

Managing hypertension often involves a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity. We educate clients and families on making heart-healthy food choices, including filling each meal with a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables such as blue, purple, red, yellow, green, and white produce. 

Foods rich in potassium can also support healthy blood pressure by helping balance sodium levels, relaxing blood vessel walls, and promoting overall vascular health. However, anyone considering increasing their potassium intake should first consult their physician, especially those with kidney disease or those taking certain blood pressure medications, as too much potassium can be harmful.

Limiting sodium is another important step in managing hypertension. Excess sodium causes the body to retain water, increasing blood volume and forcing the heart to work harder, which raises blood pressure. Instead of salt, season foods with herbs and spices such as garlic, basil, lemon, ginger, curry, and rosemary.

Regular exercise also plays an important role in heart health. Because the heart is a muscle, physical activity helps strengthen it and improve circulation. Low-impact activities such as walking, yoga, swimming, and chair exercises are excellent options for many older adults. As always, clients should consult their physician before beginning any new exercise program.

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