Written By: Muskan Gupta | Updated : November 25, 2025 12:48 PM IST
Veteran actor Dharmendra passed away at the age of 89 on Monday morning, November 24, leaving fans across the country emotional. According to recent reports, the renowned actor had been suffering with a long-term illness. His health had deteriorated earlier this month and was hospitalised at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital. Dharmendra's death also brings emphasis on the increasing health risks of heart disease in the older adult population. After the age of 60, doctors indicate that the heart is more prone to age-related changes and requires added attention.
The heart is naturally changed as we age. The arteries may stiffen, and the walls of the heart may become a little thicker. This complicates the smooth pumping of the blood by the heart. There is a possibility of increased blood pressure and increased chances of blockages. Most individuals beyond 60 also acquire diseases such as cholesterol imbalance or diabetes, which further burden the heart.
These alterations do not occur overnight but occur years after years. That is why it becomes necessary to monitor them regularly. Most elders overlook the initial symptoms, as it is merely their old age fatigue. As a matter of fact, they might be the signs of a heart problem.
According to experts, some of the symptoms require urgent redress. These are chest pain, shortness of breath when undertaking daily tasks, excessive sweating, leg swelling, or palpitations. It can also be now that reduced heart functioning is manifested in feeling unusually tired, lightheaded, or breathless when climbing the stairs.
Most elderly people believe that such symptoms are not dangerous. However, it can be avoided by receiving medical attention in time before the situation can develop into serious health complications such as a heart attack or heart failure. Family members are urged to be vigilant and urge the elderly individuals to communicate in the event of any form of discomfort.
Most of the lifestyle- and age-related conditions enhance heart complications after 60. One of the most common ones is high blood pressure. Lack of control of the sugar level in diabetes can make the blood vessels weak. Plaque may accumulate on the arteries due to high cholesterol.
Other factors that contribute to the risk are obesity, long-term stress and low physical activity. Even sleeping problems such as sleep apnoea can put a strain on the heart in the long run. The risk is significantly increased when there are two or more conditions that occur jointly.
Even some little daily practices would help in safeguarding the heart after 60. Healthy eating consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low amounts of salt contributing to normal blood pressure. Light exercise like 30 minutes of walking a day is helpful in the operation of the heart.
Risk can also be reduced by having good sleep, managing stress by using simple breathing exercises, and avoiding smoking. Frequent doctor visits after every six months would aid in monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels. Early treatment keeps complications under control.
Elderly people usually require reminders and emotional support to carry on healthy lifestyles. The families can assist by preparing nutritious diets, taking walks and being aware of the warning signs. One can also guarantee better treatment and care by being present throughout the doctor visits. Most of the age-related heart problems can be controlled and even avoided with early treatment and regular lifestyle modification.
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