Dementia develops for a variety of reasons and progresses differently from one older adult to the next. Various daily habits and lifestyle changes may prove effective in preventing the progression of cognitive decline.
Play Games
Playing games, completing jigsaw puzzles, and solving word puzzles encourages the growth of new neurons and the development of more pathways between the brain cells. Board games are another option, along with playing card games. By playing games, damage to the brain can be avoided when signals take different routes. The games chosen should stimulate memory, require reasoning ability, and have a time limit to encourage faster information processing.
Some seniors need extra help to accomplish daily tasks or engage in mentally stimulating games. 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. Danville families can rely on Assisting Hands 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.
Continue Learning
Learning is an ideal way to stimulate various areas of the brain. Simply performing daily tasks with the opposite hand makes the brain learn how to compensate for the change. Seniors may also want to consider learning a new hobby or skill. They can try playing musical instruments or learning dance steps, or maybe take up crocheting or knitting. The final results don’t need to be perfect. However, the brain experiences enough of a challenge to encourage upgrading its function.
Consume Sufficient Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays several roles in the body, including assisting the gastrointestinal tract in absorbing calcium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc. Many seniors unknowingly have a vitamin D deficiency, which has also been shown to contribute to cognitive impairment.
Exposing the skin to direct sunlight is the easiest and least expensive means of generating the nutrient’s production. However, certain dairy products, juices, and cereals also contain vitamin D. Other sources include liver, salmon, sardines, swordfish, and tuna. Older adults should get 600 to 800 IU of the vitamin each day.
Include Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Diet
Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for developing and recalling memories. Cell membranes contain omega-3 fatty acids. However, higher levels are found throughout the central nervous system. Some research claims omega-3 fatty acids can reverse certain symptoms of dementia. Good sources of the nutrient include chia seeds, flaxseed and olive oils, oily fish, soybeans, and walnuts.
Following a healthy diet is essential for aging adults who want to prevent the risk of a variety of age-related diseases. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of homecare services. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years.
Eat Plenty of Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens provide a rich source of beta-carotene, folate, and vitamin K, which are all needed for brain health. Having one serving of kale or spinach each day has been shown to boost cognitive function. Other vegetable sources of vital brain-healthy nutrients include asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and collard greens.
Reduce Inflammation
Inflammatory processes in the body have the potential to contribute to the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive impairment. Seniors should reduce or eliminate sugar from their diets because it’s known to cause inflammation. They should also limit their intake of baked goods and processed foods that might worsen symptoms. Older adults should also get seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night and regularly engage in some type of physical activity five times a week.
Dementia is just one of many conditions that can affect quality of life. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust home care Danville experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. Assisting Hands Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today to learn more about our customized care plans.
