Dementia is a term for a group of symptoms that are caused by a decline in cognitive skills. These symptoms include memory loss, poor judgment, trouble communicating, and trouble with daily tasks. Age is a big risk factor for dementia, but studies show that certain changes to a senior’s lifestyle can help lower the risk and may even delay the start of cognitive decline. With the help of their home care team and loved ones, seniors can incorporate these changes and do all they can to support their well-being. Consider the following when exploring the link between lifestyle and dementia.
Physical Activity and Dementia
Regular physical activity has many health benefits, such as a lower chance of dementia. Aerobic activities, like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, can improve blood flow to the brain, promote neuroplasticity, and improve cognitive function. Seniors are encouraged to add at least 30 minutes of physical activity to their day to gain full benefits. This can be hard for seniors who have led mainly sedentary lives. With gentle encouragement and participation, the home care team can positively influence seniors to move more each day until they easily hit the 30-minute target. Also, they can transport seniors to group classes that will not only get them moving but also increase their chance for socialization.
Healthy Diet Choices
Following a diet that is good for the brain can be beneficial for various reasons. Seniors should try to eat a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. One such diet is the Mediterranean diet, which is full of fruits, vegetables, fish, and olive oil and has been linked to a lower chance of dementia. Like physical activity, eating this way might be new to some seniors. The good news is that home health aids can help seniors shop, meal plan, and even prepare their food. This way, they improve their diets and understand how to fix new recipes. Additionally, being overweight increases seniors’ risk of dementia. They can maintain a healthy weight and decrease the risk by eating a varied diet.
Avoid Withdrawal to Gain Better Health
As mentioned, seniors’ well-being hinges on socialization. The brain needs mental stimulation and social interaction to stay healthy – and senior brains are no different. Seniors should focus on activities that stretch their minds, like reading, playing games, learning new skills, or playing musical instruments. Having a busy social life, being involved in community activities, and keeping in touch with family and friends helps keep them focused and sharp. When seniors have mobility issues, socialization can be a problem. However, when home care is added to the support team, seniors can thrive with socialization in their homes.
Although changing their lifestyle can benefit seniors in numerous ways and possibly lower their risk of dementia, this doesn’t mean it will stop dementia altogether. Still, it does give seniors a good base to build on. With the help of their home care team and loved ones, they can make lasting lifestyle changes that help them feel better about their future. Seniors should also be encouraged to talk with their medical team about their dementia risk and any other changes they can make.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in San Diego, CA please contact the caring staff at A Caring Touch Home Care today. Call (619) 344-0528
A Caring Touch Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency providing exceptional home care in Coronado, Del Mar / Del Mar Heights, Bonita, East Lake, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Mt. Helix/ La Mesa, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Carmel Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Point Loma, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and surrounding areas.
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