Seniors are at higher risk for developing various age-related illnesses, including dementia. However, there are changes they can make to lower the risk. Here are some of the things you can do to help your aging loved one avoid dementia.
Discourage Smoking
It can be difficult for seniors who have smoked most of their lives to quit, but smoking puts them at higher risk for developing dementia. Smoking causes the arteries to narrow and blood pressure to rise, which has a negative effect on brain function. To help your loved one stop smoking, encourage him or her to engage in activities such as painting or playing cards when the urge to smoke arises. You should also have healthy snacks around the home to curb smoking cravings.
If your loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits and accomplishing daily tasks, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Encourage Regular Exercise
Regular exercise makes the heart and circulatory system more efficient. Physical activity also keeps a senior’s blood pressure at a healthy level, which reduces the risk of dementia. Choose some simple exercise routines your loved one can do, such as water aerobics, yoga, and bicycling. Help your loved one plant a garden, or plan dancing activities.
Aging adults with limited mobility may need assistance with exercise and other daily tasks. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Livingston respite care experts at Assisting Hands Home Care are here to help. All of our home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Serve Brain-Healthy Foods
Buy foods for your loved one that are healthy for the brain, including colorful fruits and vegetables, salmon, eggs, and nuts. These foods can help the brain function normally, and they may prevent dementia. When you prepare your loved one’s meals, make sure the foods contain the following:
- Fiber
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamins
Provide Support
There’s more to caring for an elderly loved one than bathing, grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning up around the home. While those things are important, it’s also necessary to provide the support and affection your loved one craves.
Depression and isolation are two factors that contribute to dementia. However, if your loved one can count on you for support and companionship, he or she can lower the risk of developing dementia. The next time you go to the library to read, run an errand, or visit the local park, ask your loved one to go with you. If you notice your loved one being distant, don’t wait for him or her to tell you what’s wrong. Instead, offer support and let your loved one know you’re always there to talk.
Families who need additional assistance caring for elderly loved ones should consider hiring professional caregivers. The type of home care Livingston seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
