The key to a longer life is to avoid and control diseases and conditions. Adding these foods to your elderly loved one’s diet can help him or her be healthier and stronger so you can enjoy spending time together for years to come.
1. Avocados
Avocados were once discouraged by health experts because of their high fat content, but recent research has shown the benefits of including avocados as part of a healthy diet. Avocados contain a potent antioxidant called xanthophyll. A 2013 study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found xanthophyll reduces the effects of aging on the body.
Preparing nutrient-rich meals can be challenging for some seniors, but a professional caregiver can help your loved one maintain a healthy diet. When considering elder care, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits.
2. Coffee
A cup of coffee can do more than help your loved one get going in the morning. It can also prolong his or her life. Coffee contains powerful antioxidants that prevent free radicals from damaging the heart and causing cancer cell mutations to develop. A 2012 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that over 13 years, study participants who regularly drank coffee had lower mortality rates than those who didn’t drink it.
3. Salmon
Salmon, particularly wild salmon, is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have long been known for their heart-healthy benefits, but recent research has linked them to longevity. A study done by researchers at Ohio State University found people who regularly consumed omega-3 fatty acids had longer telomeres. Telomeres are found in DNA and are linked to longevity.
4. Olive Oil
Strokes kill more than 130,000 people in the United States each year. Approximately 75 percent of these fatal strokes occur in people over the age of 65. Including more olive oil in your loved one’s diet may reduce his or her stroke risk. Recent research by the American Academy of Neurology found people who regularly cooked with olive oil reduced their risk of stroke by 41 percent.
Switching to healthier options can decrease symptoms of cardiovascular diseases such as strokes. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Lincoln senior care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
5. Green Tea
Drinking green tea regularly has a host of health benefits, including greater longevity. Green tea contains catechins, which have been found to reduce the risk of cancer. A study done by the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville found senior women who drank green tea at least three times a week reduced their risk of developing esophageal and stomach cancer by 17 percent.
6. Pomegranates
Pomegranates are high in antioxidants, which have been found to protect the heart. The American Heart Association estimates 42 million seniors over the age 60 have one or more types of cardiovascular disease, which is currently the leading cause of death for both men and women. Including pomegranates in your loved one’s diet can boost his or her heart health. A 2011 study by British researchers found drinking one glass of pomegranate juice every day reduces blood pressure and inflammation.
7. Dark Chocolate
Having an occasional treat of dark chocolate can reduce inflammation in the body, which lowers the risk of cancer. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which have been linked to longevity. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found men who ate flavonoids had a 25 percent lower risk of death due to heart disease and cancer.
Many seniors who need help preparing nutritious meals, switching to healthy foods, and making healthy lifestyle choices can benefit from professional in-home care. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Lincoln seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at (916) 226-3737 today.