Dementia develops for several reasons. The biological factors involved interfere with normal neuron communication, which prevents thought processes from occurring normally. There are several ways seniors can stop dementia from progressing.
1. Eat Healthier
Eating a healthy diet provides the nutrients needed to protect neurons while fighting the free radicals that lead to cell damage. Meals should consist of vegetables and fruits accompanied by poultry or fish. Whole grains, nuts, and olive oil are also recommended.
Seniors should eat lean red meats less frequently, as they may cause too much iron accumulation in the brain, which has damaging effects. They should also avoid processed foods high in fat, salt, and sugar, as these foods lead to fluid retention, inflammation, and plaque formation in the delicate blood vessels.
Seniors with mobility limitations or health conditions may find it difficult to prepare meals on their own, which can make it hard to get proper nutrition. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Lifestar Home Care , a leading provider of home care service families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Exercise More
Routine workouts strengthen the cardiovascular system, which means the heart doesn’t need to work as hard to effectively circulate blood. The blood vessels relax because they’re not forced to accommodate as much blood all at once. Blood circulates more easily and provides oxygen and nutrients to the brain more efficiently.
Researchers who published a study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine studied 38 senior citizens who had a mild form of vascular dementia. The older adults started an exercise regimen that involved going for one-hour walks three days each week. At the end of six months, each senior underwent reevaluation. All had lower blood pressure, and testing revealed cognitive function had increased.
3. Do Mental Workouts
Challenging the brain on a daily basis strengthens neural pathways and increases the number of neurons. Stimulating cognitive activities may involve solving puzzles, reading new material, or playing games. Learning something new exercises the brain further. Engaging in activities that require physical, visual, and mental effort stimulates more areas of the brain.
Professional caregivers with training and expertise in methods of cognitive stimulation can be a wonderful asset for seniors. The type of Home Care Oklahoma City seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Lifestar Home Care , we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors.
4. Socialize Often
Chinese scientists followed a group of more than 7,500 men and women over the age of 65 for nine years. Initially, none of the seniors exhibited dementia symptoms. By the end of the study, 338 adults had developed the disorder.
During the study, the researchers evaluated subjects’ emotional connections with others, living conditions, marital status, social networks, and participation in social activities. The results showed active social lives correlate with a reduction in dementia risk. Family members should encourage their aging loved ones to have more interaction with family and friends.
5. Get Plenty of Sleep
A study published in the August 2017 issue of Neurology explains why a group of researchers believe getting enough sleep relates to cognitive health. The scientists followed the sleep habits of 321 adults over the course of 19 years. By the end of the evaluation, 32 seniors with ineffective sleep patterns had developed dementia. Seniors should try to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.
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. Oklahoma City families can rely on Lifestar Home Care 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. To learn more about our highly trained caregivers, call us today.