Sophie Okolo, MPH

Ageing comes with many bodily changes, which can be problematic if not well-managed. One of such changes includes how well blood circulates, with studies revealing that poor blood circulation in the legs is a critical health issue among seniors. According to medical research, this happens primarily due to the natural wear and tear that happens during this period. The veins have valves to control blood flow, but with natural, biological deterioration, this function becomes impaired. That could explain why the Coastal Vascular website reports that seniors with advanced varicose vein cases are 38 times likelier to develop severe deep vein thrombosis or DVT. This page highlights how to improve leg circulation in seniors.

1. Maintain a healthy weight and diet

Having excess weight may indicate that you have higher white fat levels than brown in your body. White fat cells store the energy and glucose that the body needs to maintain optimal performance. Sometimes, however, when the body’s white fat cells become excessive, you begin to struggle with uncontrolled weight gain. For seniors, this is usually not ideal as the excess fat places immense pressure on the heart, impacting proper blood circulation.

Remember that as you age, your body’s vital organs do the same and often don’t perform as they did in your younger years. Impacted blood circulation also means your legs are denied the proper nutrients needed to hold much of your body weight. The answer to resolving this problem is to stick to a healthy diet. Foods rich in lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and fruits support healthy circulation and are also known to reduce the risk of obesity-related conditions in older people.

2. Stay active

Physical activity is critical to enhancing blood circulation, especially for seniors. The legs hold much of your body weight, and they can serve you better during your advanced years when you care for them. Simple activities like walking, cycling, or swimming are excellent for circulation, especially in the lower extremities. Many older adults experience leg numbness after being in one position for too long, especially during sitting or sleeping positions. This inactivity doesn’t augur well for overall cardiovascular health, and before you know it, your legs will begin to bear the brunt of it all. 

Moreover, inactivity can also increase the risk of blood clots and may lead to varicose veins. Apart from seeing the vein doctor, it would help to engage in low-impact exercises like brisk walking to stimulate blood flow to the legs. Consider targeted exercises like ankle circles, calf raises, and leg lifts to tone specific muscles responsible for boosting blood circulation.

3. Wear compression garments

Due to the increased risk of venous insufficiency, seniors are advised to invest in compression garments to prevent blood from pooling. Compression therapy is widely used in medical circles to support venous blood flow, and it’s best to take advantage of its many benefits. Seniors who experience symptoms such as swelling, discomfort, and numbness in the legs will find compression garments useful. They provide relief and improve overall leg health, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using them. A physician will determine the compression level for your specific needs. In the meantime, you can relieve swelling symptoms by elevating your legs when sitting or lying down to boost blood flow back to the heart.

Leg health is a critical part of your well-being, and applying the above tips will help ensure a higher quality of life.