Most people assume food allergies only occur in children, but adults can develop this issue as well. Seniors are at risk for food allergies because their immune systems grow weaker with age. Some experts estimate up to 10 percent of older adults have been diagnosed with late-onset food allergies. If your senior loved one is among them, there are some things you can do to help him or her address the symptoms.
Get to the Doctor
If you suspect your loved one has a food allergy, take him or her to a doctor for testing. Many food allergies can be detected through blood tests and skin pricking. Some doctors may perform oral food challenges, which involves administering the concerning food to the senior while monitoring results.
Try a Trial Food Elimination Diet
Your loved one’s doctor may suggest avoiding the potential food allergen for two to four weeks as part of a trial-and-error process. If you suspect your loved one has a specific allergy, you can also do this test on your own. Within a month, all signs and symptoms should disappear.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior home care. 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.
Know the Most Common Food Allergens for Seniors
Over 90 percent of all food allergies involve sensitivity to cow’s milk, eggs, fish, peanuts, wheat, tree nuts, soy, and shellfish. If your loved one experiences a swollen throat, upset stomach, or other digestive issues after consuming any of these foods, eliminate the food from his or her diet. If your loved one has difficulty breathing, take him or her to a doctor immediately.
Read Food Labels
Once your loved one has been diagnosed with a food allergy, read food labels carefully so you can help him or her avoid those allergens. However, not all allergens are listed on the labels. Some products are processed in plants, which may contaminate them with other allergens. It’s against the law for a company to conceal this information. If you have any questions, contact the manufacturer.
Certain processed foods can even lead to the development of dementia and other types of cognitive decline. Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Lincoln seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance.
Create Alternative Recipes
If your loved one is allergic to a particular item, come up with alternatives. For example, your loved one can try almond milk if he or she becomes allergic to cow’s milk. If wheat or gluten is the problem, help your loved one learn how to work with other flour options like coconut, rice, and almond.
Prepare Meals Yourself
For seniors who don’t prefer cooking or are unable to do so, managing a food allergy can be overwhelming. It may be time for you to help with meals. Invite your loved one to eat with you and your family regularly, or cook several meals in advance and store them in the freezer for your loved one to heat up during the week.
Ensure Your Loved One Doesn’t Feel Left Out
Having a food allergy can make some seniors feel left out at barbecues, parties, and restaurants. When your loved one attends a social event, make sure he or she always has some non-allergen food to eat. Contact restaurants ahead of time to find out which of their dishes don’t contain the allergens.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Lincoln families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today at (916) 226-3737 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.