Cognitive impairment isn’t an inevitable part of aging, but it’s often a consequence of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The disorder is of particular concern to women because the majority of seniors with Alzheimer’s are female. However, there are many ways women can fight the development of Alzheimer’s disease and boost their brain health.
1. Focus on Good Nutrition
The DASH and Mediterranean diets are essential for maintaining cardiovascular health. Healthy blood circulation is necessary for the brain to receive sufficient levels of oxygen and nutrients, and certain foods also protect delicate neurons.
Garlic and onions contain anti-inflammatory properties that help the immune system ward off bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Oily fish and nuts provide omega-3 fatty acids that neurons need to function. Lean meats, fruits, and vegetables provide B-complex vitamins and antioxidants.
Cognitive impairment is one of the many health issues aging adults are susceptible to. 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 services 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. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help.
2. Exercise Regularly
Physicians suggest older women should engage in resistance training and aerobic exercise three to four times each week to maintain cardiovascular and brain health. Exercise also helps women maintain their body weight and keep LDL cholesterol as low as possible to prevent plaque buildup in the brain.
3. Engage in Cognitive Exercise
Challenging the brain on a daily basis keeps neuron communication at peak levels. Various activities can stimulate multiple areas of the brain to perform physical, visual, hearing, and memory tasks. Senior women should consider reading, crafting, playing video games, or learning to play a musical instrument.
4. Keep Up with Medical Checkups
Annual checkups enable physicians to diagnose medical conditions earlier and provide treatment sooner. Hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, and other conditions lead to inflammation in the brain and plaque formation, which cause neuron and vascular damage.
5. Get Enough Sleep
Older adults need seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Sleep is necessary for the body to rest, perform cellular repairs, and eliminate toxic substances that lead to the production of beta-amyloid proteins.
Making healthy lifestyle choices is one of the best ways to stave off Alzheimer’s disease. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional Home Care in San Diego, CA. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
6. Update Vaccinations
Flu shots can prevent or lessen the effects of the flu, which cause inflammation and swelling that may damage neurons. Researchers published an article in the Canadian Medical Association Journal following a study that claimed diphtheria, polio, tetanus, and flu vaccinations lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
7. Drink Coffee
An article published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reported that the antioxidants in coffee prevent the onset and progression of the disease. Drinking three to five cups of coffee each day reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer’s by up to 65 percent.
8. Meditate
Meditating for up to 12 minutes each day over eight weeks has been shown to enhance vascular circulation in older adults. Increased blood flow can stave off Alzheimer’s disease by supplying cells with the nutrients needed to function properly. Meditating also lowers the mental and physical stress that leads to inflammation and cell damage.
Making healthy lifestyle choices is one of the best ways to stave off Alzheimer’s disease. If your loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits, consider hiring a professional caregiver. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Assisting Hands Home Care is a leading San Diego at-home care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life. Call us at 858-667-0813 to create a customized in-home care plan.
