Seniors can reap the benefits of making healthy lifestyle choices. The right diet plays a major role in ensuring ongoing health and has the ability to reduce the risk of developing many different disease processes while providing energy. However, some seniors may not realize there’s a selection of foods that top the list in terms of being nutrient dense.
1. Avocados
Along with containing anti-inflammatory fatty acids, avocados supply several vital nutrients, including vitamins A, B complex, C, E, and K in addition to potassium. The nutrients combine to slow the effects of natural aging. Fatty acids are necessary for nerve and neuron cell health, replication, and growth. Vitamin A encourages the elimination of dead skin cells and the growth and development of new cells. The nutrient also provides some protection against the harmful rays of the sun.
2. Berries
Fruits belonging to the berry group are high in fiber, low in sugar, and rich in free radical–fighting antioxidants. Berries contain compounds known as anthocyanidins, which are responsible for the bright colors. Anthocyanidins have also been shown to pass through the blood-brain barrier and protect neurons from cognitive impairment.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support and information when it comes to getting proper nutrition. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust Richmond senior care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
3. Garlic
Although not typically consumed alone, garlic should be a regular part of a senior’s diet. The allicin in garlic has powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. An older body’s often weakened immune system benefits from the help in fighting infections. Garlic is also known to regulate cholesterol levels, which aids in preventing atherosclerosis and hypertension.
4. Liver
Liver provides seniors with an abundance of nutrients, including vitamins A and D along with copper, iron, and zinc. As such, liver is an ideal food for older adults, and it’s a rich source of protein. Liver is also often recommended for those with anemia.
Family caregivers need to pay attention to their health needs too, and that involves self-care and taking time to nurture their own wellbeing. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Richmond, VA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.
5. Salmon
Fish such as salmon are a great source of protein, and they also provide much-needed omega-3 fatty acids. Protein is necessary for cellular and tissue repair and replacement. The central nervous system needs fatty acids to repair nerves and protect neurons. Omega-3 fatty acids also play a role in regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels while offering anti-inflammatory benefits.
6. Spinach
This dark leafy green vegetable is considered to be a superfood for the many nutrients it contains. Spinach provides calcium, copper, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium in addition to vitamins A, B complex, C, E, and K.
7. Sweet Potatoes
This popular root vegetable is a good source of beta-carotene, which transforms into vitamin A. Sweet potatoes also contain vitamins C and E along with fiber, and they equip the body with free radical–fighting antioxidants. Additionally, they have the ability to increase the levels of the hormone adiponectin, which regulates insulin. The nutrients supplied by sweet potatoes also help the skin remain elastic and supple.
A trained professional caregiver can be an ideal resource when you’re trying to help your loved one lead a healthier lifestyle. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of senior care. Richmond 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 your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.