Taking supplements can provide significant benefits for seniors, including effective weight management, good mental health, and robust immune system function. However, seniors need to know what supplements to avoid, especially if they’re currently taking medications. Speaking to your aging parent’s primary care physician can prevent your loved one from taking vitamins and supplements that might cause medical issues. Below are some of the supplements you should ask your loved one’s doctor about.
1. Zinc
One of the top causes of death among aging adults is infectious disease, which is why your loved one needs to take every step possible to maintain a well-functioning immune system, and taking zinc supplements can help. Seniors need to receive a specific amount of this trace mineral each day according to their weight, age, and other factors. When speaking to your loved one’s doctor, ask about this supplement and the proper amount your loved one should take. If your loved one is taking medications or has health problems that cause the mineral to lose its benefits and lead to other health issues, the doctor will let you know.
2. Vitamin D
Promoting supplements that boost your loved one’s mental and emotional health should be important to you and your family. Vitamin D can increase happiness and lower the risk of depression and other mental disorders. The vitamin supplement can also reduce the risk of cancer, infections, and bone diseases that seniors are more prone to, such as osteoporosis.
If your loved one needs assistance with planning and preparing nutritious meals, help is just a phone call away. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality at-home care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar Tablets
Inflammation is a significant problem for the elderly, and it could lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes, bowel disease, arthritis, and more. Apple cider vinegar tablets help seniors fight inflammation. They can also prevent skin problems and rid the body of bacteria.
4. B12
As seniors age, their cognitive health often decreases and their risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s, and memory problems increases. By taking a B12 supplement, your loved one can boost his or her cognitive health and increase the odds of maintaining an independent lifestyle. Your loved one will have the ability to make safe decisions and avoid dangerous actions.
If your loved one is already living with dementia, a trained home caregiver can be a wonderful asset. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Edmonton families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
5. Magnesium
Lactic acid buildup in older adults is common, and it could lead to fatigue and difficulty with physical movements. Ask the doctor about magnesium supplements and how they can impact your loved one’s health. Taking magnesium can lead to more strength and energy and lower the odds of a sedentary lifestyle. The mineral can help with blood pressure management, protect against depression, stave off diabetes, and prevent various issues caused by inflammation.
6. Vitamin C
Vitamin C deficiencies can be dangerous for seniors and cause problems such as low blood sugar. Taking this type of supplement could stabilize your loved one’s blood pressure and reduce the odds of poor circulation and conditions such as diabetes. This vitamin can also boost the immune system and protect against infectious diseases. When your loved one receives enough vitamin C, his or her body can increase collagen production, which provides aid in wound care and healing.
In Edmonton, in-home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at (780) 490-7337 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.