Age-related changes are commonly known to affect the memory. However, there are many ways family members can support their older loved ones’ cognitive health. By making a few changes, seniors can enjoy enhanced memory function and potentially stave off debilitating cognitive problems.
Balanced Diet
For optimal physical and cognitive health, seniors should adopt a low-fat diet. Lean meats and poultry supply much-needed protein, iron, and other nutrients. Eating oily fish two to three times weekly supplies omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to protect delicate neurons and other nerve tissues. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables offer an abundance of vitamins and minerals along with potent antioxidants that prevent cell damage by free radicals. Garlic and onions also contain chemical compounds that reduce systemic inflammation that could affect brain function.
Sufficient Physical Exercise
Seniors need a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week to maintain or boost their cardiovascular function, which can enhance cognition by increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the brain. Routine exercise also reduces levels of stress hormones, which may damage neurons and interfere with cognitive function. Physical activity has also been shown to boost the levels of the BDNF protein, which promotes neuron health. Even taking a 30-minute walk five to seven times a week can be beneficial.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. 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.
Cognitive Exercise
There are many different ways seniors can boost their memory skills. Some of the best brain fitness activities for older adults include crafting, working crossword or sudoku puzzles, and playing cards or board games. Reading, singing, and playing musical instruments are also good alternatives. Learning a new hobby or skill stimulates multiple areas of the brain.
Professional caregivers with training in methods of cognitive stimulation can be a wonderful source of support for seniors. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elder care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Adequate Sleep
Seniors need seven to nine hours of restful sleep every night. Sleep deprivation wreaks havoc on physical and cognitive health. If your loved one isn’t sleeping soundly at night, determine the reason for the problem. Perhaps he or she needs a different mattress or a change of pillows or bed linens. Window coverings may not effectively block out exterior light. Seniors need to avoid caffeine and stimulating activities before bedtime so their bodies can sufficiently relax and prepare for sleep.
Social Connections
Seniors who become isolated have a tendency to experience depression, physical health problems, and cognitive challenges. You can ensure your parent leaves the home periodically by visiting him or her regularly and inviting him or her to join you on outings. Advancements in technology provide older adults with an abundance of options that can help them enjoy active social lives. If your loved one doesn’t live close to family members or friends, he or she can keep in touch with loved ones via social media and video chats.
Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of in-home care. Roseville families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet your elderly loved one’s unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. If you need compassionate professional care for your loved one, call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.