Category: Exercise

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutritious unsaturated fats that are naturally found in fish such as herring, salmon and tuna. Among plants, flax is perhaps the best source for omega-3 fatty acids, though avocados and broccoli also have small traces of this important nutrient. Following are six reasons Oshkosh elder care providers should encourage seniors to consume more omega-3s.

1. Regulates Triglycerides

Omega-3 fatty acids can regulate the levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream. To reduce the risk of clogged arteries, seniors with imbalances of both HDL and LDL cholesterol are encouraged to eat this nutrient on a regular basis and cut down on saturated fat and reduce the risk of stroke and the need for post-stroke care in Oshkosh.

2. Boosts Cardiovascular Function

Just like other unsaturated fats, omega-3s significantly cut the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In Asia and the Mediterranean regions, people who eat a lot of seafood have very low incidences of heart attacks and strokes. Fish oil can also stimulate proper blood circulation throughout the entire body.

3. Reduces Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids have been confirmed by worldwide scientific communities. These fatty acids reduce inflammation that naturally comes with aging such as migraines or sore muscles. Doctors often recommend that omega-3 supplements or natural sources be taken along with prescription anti-inflammatory drugs.

4. Strengthens Joints and Bones

Omega-3s that are derived from fish oil can be effective in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. That is because this nutrient improves the overall strength and stiffness of bones and joints. Seniors who consume omega-3s from fresh seafood are likely to see major improvements in their flexibility and dexterity of the limbs.

5. Promotes Mental Health

Although nothing can prevent or cure dementia, cognitive disorders can be delayed with a regular intake of omega-3s. Fatty acids in general are known for their important roles in regulating normal brain function, particularly in terms of memory and motor function. Omega-3s can also reduce the risk of depression by balancing chemical receptors in the nervous system.

6. Encourages Respiratory Function

Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for seniors who live with respiratory problems such as asthma or COPD. This nutrient can loosen up the airways that normally constrict due to these conditions. Omega-3s also make it easier for seniors to breathe after engaging in moderate exercise or physical therapy.

Make sure your loved one consumes the right amount of omega-3s with help from Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh. Our comprehensive stroke, Alzheimer’s, and dementia home care in Oshkosh gives seniors the assistance they need with daily activities such as meal preparation and exercise in order to promote physical and mental wellbeing. Let us customize a care plan for your loved one today when you call 920-717-1767 to set up a free in-home consultation.

If you’re looking for a healthy but delicious snack for your senior loved one’s meals this summer, you might consider peaches. These fruits are not only delicious but contain numerous health benefits. They’re only 35-50 calories a fruit and contain no fat making them a healthy choice. Peaches are also rich in phenols, which are chemicals that act as antioxidants that help reduce obesity-related diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Peaches are also packed with vitamins A and C, which can help regenerate skin tissue and keep skin healthy. Oshkosh senior care providers might consider using some of the following recipes to round out senior diets.

1. Simple Peach Pairings

Don’t be afraid to slice up some peaches and have your senior loved one try them with cream, yogurt, or even cottage cheese. This option works best if you can find fresh peaches from a local farmer’s market as these are often the tastiest to eat as plain fruit. Consider adding a little bit of raw, local honey or a sweetener like Splenda if the peaches are a bit tart.

2. Peach Smoothie

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to serve peaches, a smoothie might be the way to go. Combine one cup of freshly sliced peaches, peach or plain flavored Greek yogurt and protein powder, one cup of milk, and 10-12 crescent ice cubes. Once all the ingredients are together, blend them thoroughly. Be sure to put the ice toward the bottom of the blender and the softer ingredients toward the top. Blend the mixture and serve right away.

3. Rosemary Mustard Pork with Peaches

Season the pork with salt and pepper and grill it on a skillet for about ten minutes on each side. Combine three wedged peaches, ½-cup dry white wine, 1/3-cup light brown sugar, and half a cup of water in a saucepan. Next, add strips of lemon zest to the pan and squeeze in lemon juice. Cover this mixture and cook it over medium-high heat for five to seven minutes. Transfer the peaches to a bowl, but leave the juice in the pan. Add two teaspoons of whole-grain mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper to the juices in the pan. Transfer 1/3 cup of liquid to a small bowl and stir in ¼ teaspoon of chopped rosemary. Take the rosemary liquid and brush it onto the pork, which you should continue grilling until it reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for the meat to finish grilling, simmer the remaining liquid in the saucepan until it gets syrupy. When this happens, return the peaches into the syrup. Slice the pork and cover each slice with a generous helping of the peaches.

4. Grilled Peach Salad with Balsamic Bacon Vinaigrette

Prepare a grill with nonstick spray and cook five slices of bacon in a skillet. Once it’s crisp, remove it and put it on a plate with paper towels. Saute one finely chopped shallot in the bacon grease for added flavor. Stir in one teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ¼-cup balsamic vinegar and one-teaspoon sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Next, quarter three large peaches. Brush each side with olive oil and season it with pepper and salt, then grill it for about one to two minutes on each side. Add spinach, sliced red onions, and any other desired greens to a large serving bowl. Add the peaches, the vinaigrette and the chopped bacon and toss it all together.

5. Peach Pancakes

If your senior loved one is a pancake fan, try this take on a sweet classic. In a non-stick bowl, pour two cups of Bisquick mix, two tablespoons of sugar, two teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1½ cups of buttermilk and one egg. Whisk the mixture until it is blended well before gently folding in 1½ cup of finely chopped fresh peaches. Heat a skillet to 375 degrees and grease with nonstick spray or vegetable oil. Use a ¼-measuring cup to dole out small pancakes. You will know they are ready to flip when the top of each pancake is covered with many bubbles. Cook until each side is lightly browned. For added fun, serve the pancakes with whipped cream, extra sliced peaches, and a little pinch of cinnamon.

Help your senior loved one maintain a well-balanced diet with these and other beneficial fruits. If your loved one is having trouble preparing meals alone, turn to Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh. We provide comprehensive live-in, hourly, and Oshkosh respite care to give seniors the tools they need to adopt healthy lifestyle habits including physical exercise and nutritious diet. Call 920-717-1767 today to set up a care plan with an experienced Care Manager today.

Statistics indicate that up to one-third of all adults live with lactose intolerance. These people lack or do not have sufficient quantities of the lactase enzyme in their stomach that makes it possible to break down the sugar known as lactose, which is found in milk and other dairy products. Without the enzyme, consuming dairy products causes abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas and diarrhea. However, there are many alternative dairy-free treats hourly Oshkosh caregivers can prepare to help satisfy their loved one’s sweet tooth.

Sorbet

This frozen treat is made using sweetened water and fruit juice or other flavor additives instead of milk or cream. Sorbet comes in many different fruit flavors and even chocolate. This dessert option also does not contain fat, which is great for seniors on a diet.

Coconut Bliss

Manufactured by a company called Luna and Larry’s, these delicious non-dairy treats are made with coconut milk rather than dairy. The organic ice creams come in a wide variety of flavors to suit your loved one’s preferences.

Tofutti Cuties

These non-dairy ice cream sandwiches come in berry, chocolate, cookies ‘n cream, mint chocolate chip, vanilla and totally vanilla flavors. The best part about these frozen delicacies is that they are made using soy.

So Delicious

So Delicious is another company that makes special dairy-free ice creams using coconut milk. They also manufacture dairy-free yogurt, dessert toppings and beverages in case ice cream isn’t on your loved one’s mind.

Oreo Cookies

A favorite with many for generations, the sweet, creamy filling of this popular cookie is made with canola oil and corn syrup. Instead of using milk and cocoa to make the chocolate cookie, Nabisco uses cocoa and alkali.

Nutter Butters Cookies

When craving something crunchy and peanut butter flavored, these cookies are sure to do the trick. They are made using a variety of oils rather than milk, however, the label warns that the product is made using wheat, peanuts and soy. While this is dairy free, this isn’t a treat for those with a nut allergy.

Graham Crackers

The traditional sweet crackers come in a variety of flavors and are all made using some type of vegetable oil. Eat them alone, with peanut butter or with marshmallow cream and ready-made frosting, which are also dairy-free sweets.

Dietary restrictions make mealtime challenging for seniors, but there are numerous at-home care agencies in Oshkosh that can help your loved one maintain a nutritious diet. Contact Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh at 920-717-1767 to speak to a dedicated Care Manager about our premier services that enable seniors to age in place comfortably. Our trusted caregivers are always available to help our clients adopt healthy habits that promote longevity and wellbeing, including healthy diet and regular exercise. Be sure to schedule a complimentary consultation today.