Just because people get older doesn’t mean they’ll succumb to the health effects of aging. Simple lifestyle habits can keep seniors active and healthy, even those who have preexisting medical conditions. Here are five ways your senior loved one can stave off the effects of aging.
1. Stay Active
Engaging in mild forms of exercise such as walking and low-impact aerobics can promote cardiovascular health by increasing circulation, lowering cholesterol levels, enhancing pulmonary function, and keeping anxiety and depression at bay. While daily exercise is important to the wellbeing of seniors, talk to a physician before encouraging your loved one to engage in a new exercise program.
Older adults sometimes need assistance to perform exercises and other everyday tasks safely. Oshkosh home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
2. Avoid Smoking
Smoking may raise the risk for premature aging. The toxins in a cigarette can lead to capillary damage, which may be a risk factor in cardiovascular disease and stroke. If your loved one smokes and is unable to quit independently, make an appointment with his or her physician. The doctor can suggest effective smoking cessation treatment options that may include nicotine replacement products, prescription medications, hospital-based support groups, and cognitive therapy.
3. Eat Healthy
As people age, they become more susceptible to nutritional deficiencies, which speeds up the aging process. Eating a nutritionally-dense diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids may boost cardiovascular function, maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and protect the skin from age-related conditions. If your loved one is unable to consume the recommended daily requirements for essential vitamins and minerals, ask the doctor if an over-the-counter supplement would be appropriate.
Some seniors can’t plan or cook meals alone, and their families may not always be available to assist them. In these instances, it’s important to designate a trusted companion to provide the necessary care. For families living in Oshkosh, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Senior Stride Home Care, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
4. Get a Pet
Spending time with pets, especially dogs and cats, may stave off the effects of aging. Physical contact with an animal may lower blood pressure, regulate the heart rate, and boost immune function. In addition, many seniors face social isolation, depression, and anxiety. It is thought that pet companionship greatly reduces these conditions, allowing seniors to look forward to the future with more happiness, enthusiasm, and hope.
5. Limit Alcohol Intake
An occasional alcoholic beverage may provide some health benefits for aging adults. However, drinking in excess can lead to significant problems. For example, chronic alcohol intake may lead to liver disease, high blood pressure, kidney disorders, and certain malignancies. In addition, many seniors take anticoagulant medications to reduce the risk for heart attack and stroke. When combined with alcohol, taking these medications may lead to dangerous bleeding. If your loved one drinks alcohol on a regular basis, encourage him or her to cut down. Doing so may stave off some of the effects of aging. However, if your loved one is unable to quit drinking independently, make an appointment with his or her healthcare provider to discuss treatment options.
If your loved one needs motivation to adopt healthy lifestyle changes, consider seeking the assistance of a professional in-home caregiver. Families shouldn’t have to worry about finding reliable in-home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care is a leading provider of elderly home care. We offer a proprietary program called the Balanced Care Method, which uses holistic methods to promote senior health, our caregivers and Care Managers are available 24/7, and all of our in-home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Give us a call at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our premier senior care programs.