As individuals age, their health begins to decrease, which can lead to bone aches and ailments, reduced cognitive abilities, vision and hearing issues, and more. However, aging adults can stave off some of these problems with the right health strategies while maintaining their independence and increasing longevity. Below are some of the ways older adults can avoid poor health.
Eat Healthy & Exercise
Poor time management, inadequate budget planning, and lack of energy could lead to harmful eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle. Help your senior loved one avoid these unhealthy patterns by cooking nutritious meals and taking him or her on fun adventures that involve physical movement. If you and your siblings cannot help with meal prep and exercise routines, hire a home caregiver to assist your loved one with healthy eating habits and physical activities. The caregiver can also help with other essential tasks, such as medication reminders, transportation to doctor visits, and household chores.
Getting proper nutrition and plenty of exercise are just two of the many ways older adults can maintain their health while aging in place. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Edmonton, AB, 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.
Take Vitamin Supplements
Following a healthy diet doesn’t mean seniors will receive all the vitamins and minerals their bodies need, such as zinc, vitamins D and E, calcium, and magnesium. These nutrients are required to boost the immune and digestive systems and strengthen the organs. Without these vitamins and minerals, seniors can be more susceptible to infectious diseases, poor heart health, constipation, and other health problems. Speak with your loved one’s doctor about vitamin supplements, especially if your parent is taking multiple prescriptions. The objective is to boost your loved one’s health without preventing other medications from working correctly.
Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene
Poor dental health can cause gum disease, tooth loss, and toothaches for older adults and prevent them from enjoying their favorite foods. Dental problems can also increase the risk of issues like difficulty chewing and swallowing. Medications seniors take for conditions such as arthritis and diabetes could put them at higher risk for poor dental health, but practicing proper oral hygiene can help. Your loved one should floss, brush his or her teeth twice per day, avoid sugary beverages and foods, and visit the dentist regularly.
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 home care service. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Stop Smoking
Older adults have a higher risk of heart disease, dementia, and lung cancer due to the wear and tear aging puts on their minds and bodies, and bad habits like smoking can increase their odds of developing these conditions. However, avoiding unhealthy lifestyle choices like smoking cigarettes or using other tobacco products can boost heart, bone, and lung health. If your parent currently smokes, create positive ways he or she can stop, and make sure to go at a slow pace. For instance, encourage your loved one to exercise more, take up fun hobbies, and eat healthy snacks instead of smoking. Having healthy strategies and options can curb the desire to smoke and boost overall wellbeing in the golden years.
Staying healthy is one of the best ways to remain independent in the golden years. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Edmonton, AB, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate professional care for your loved one. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (780) 490-7337.