Senior stroke survivors with diabetes face numerous dietary challenges. The combination of neurological deficits, such as chewing and swallowing difficulties, and unstable blood glucose levels can make planning healthy meals challenging. Here are five nutritious foods for elderly stroke survivors with diabetes.
1. Salmon
Fresh fish such as salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon regulates blood glucose levels, and it can also reduce the risk for a second stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids and fish oils decrease platelet aggregation. While eating large amounts of salmon or other fatty fish may slightly raise the risk for abnormal bleeding, it may lower the risk for blood clot formation and cerebral vascular accidents.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Oshkosh live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.
2. Low-Fat Cheese
Snacking on calcium-rich low-fat cheese can regulate blood glucose levels. Low-fat cheese is an excellent source of lean protein, which can enhance energy levels in stroke survivors and reduce the risk of muscle wasting in those who have limited mobility because of hemiparesis or hemiplegia. Hemiparesis refers to one-sided weakness, while hemiplegia refers to one-sided paralysis. Both of these conditions are common in stroke survivors.
3. Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re easy to chew and swallow for seniors with neurological problems related to strokes. Consuming steamed vegetables may also reduce choking risks associated with raw vegetables. Vegetables, steamed or otherwise, are integral components of the diabetic exchange diet, the most common therapeutic diet recommended for those with unstable blood sugar levels.
Dietary issues can make caring for a loved one after a stroke increasingly challenging. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
4. Almonds
High in magnesium, almonds are an excellent food choice for elderly stroke survivors with diabetes. Magnesium lowers the risk for cardiac arrhythmia, which is often higher in stroke survivors and diabetics. Consuming a handful of almonds boosts energy levels and can stave off a hypoglycemic episode. If your loved one is unable to chew or swallow almonds, grinding them in a blender or food processor is a great alternative. Ground almonds can be sprinkled over oatmeal, fruit, and salads, and in addition to reducing arrhythmia risk, almonds may lower elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
5. Oranges
Oranges are rich in potassium, which promotes optimal circulation while keeping hypertension at bay. They also have a mild diuretic effect, which helps with managing ankle edema, a condition that isn’t uncommon in stroke survivors and diabetics. Also high in vitamin C, oranges can reduce free radical damage caused by elevated blood sugar levels. If your loved one is unable to consume oranges because of their roughage content, orange juice is an acceptable alternative. Make sure you only offer unsweetened orange juice or juice without added sugar so blood glucose levels don’t spike to dangerous levels.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted homecare provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call 920-717-1767 today.