In recent years, researchers from Sapienza University of Rome and the University of California San Diego ventured to Acciaroli, Italy. The group wanted to learn about the 300 centenarians who lived there. Scientists observed their lifestyles and tried figuring out how they managed to live so long.
Follow the Mediterranean Diet
Seniors in the Mediterranean region consume a diet now recommended by physicians. As many grew up poor, they consumed the fruits and vegetables grown in gardens. Since red meat was not always affordable, their protein intake consisted of fish and poultry along with beans and nuts. Olive oil was used for cooking.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Roseville, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Stay Active
Even in their later years, seniors in Italy and other Mediterranean countries continue maintaining gardens, chopping wood for fires, and managing household chores on their own. Taking leisurely strolls through the countryside or in the mountains is also common. Routine physical activity manages body weight, enhances cardiovascular health, and alleviates stress. Adequate blood circulation ensures the brain continually receives the nutrients needed to function properly. Activities or exercise routines that include strength training keep muscles and bones strong while helping seniors maintain their physical balance. Older adults should strive to get 30 minutes of brisk walking or other moderately strenuous activity at least three times weekly.
Seniors who need assistance with exercises or other daily tasks can benefit from professional in-home care. Roseville respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
Get Adequate Sleep
Adults of all ages need seven to nine hours of sleep each night. By engaging in a sufficient amount of physical activity, seniors are more likely to fall asleep faster and remain asleep throughout the night. A well-rested body is also better equipped to perform daily functions. When seniors do not get a sufficient amount of sleep, the immune system weakens, and the body is more susceptible to stress. Older adults can increase the likelihood of getting restful sleep by ensuring the room is as noiseless as possible, the bed and linens are comfortable, and the room is darkened. They might also consider engaging in relaxing activities before bedtime.
Exercise the Brain
Stimulating the brain daily maintains the connections between the neurons. If needed, the brain can also create new transmission pathways. By exercising the brain, seniors can keep their memory and problem-solving skills intact. Activities requiring mental and visual focus along with some type of physical activity stimulate multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. Challenging the brain may include reading a book, working puzzles, or playing cards. Other options include taking a class, learning a new hobby, or playing a musical instrument.
In Roseville, CA, home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. If your elderly loved one wants to maintain a higher quality of life while aging in the comfort of home, call us at 916.226.3737 today.