As seniors age, the foods they eat can have a large impact on how their bodies function. Developing good diet plans can help older adults boost their cognitive health. The Mediterranean diet is a good choice because it consists of healthy foods that keep the mind and body in good shape. Here are some of the ways this diet can help seniors reduce their risk of dementia.
1. Blocks the Formation of Beta-Amyloid
Turmeric, ginger, and cumin are just a few of the herbs and spices used to cook meals when following the Mediterranean diet. These natural herbs and spices help seniors block the formation of beta-amyloid, which causes the plaque buildup that hinders brain function. The antioxidants from these herbs and spices can keep the brain functioning normally, reducing the risk of dementia.
Seniors with dementia may need assistance making healthier lifestyle choices, and they can benefit from professional in-home care. The type of elderly home care seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Angel Touch Home Care, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time.
2. Prevents Diabetes
When following this diet, your senior loved one will eat healthy meals and snacks in moderation throughout the day. This helps your loved one maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. Being overweight puts seniors at higher risk for diabetes, which is associated with the development of dementia. Seniors with impaired insulin secretion, insulin resistance, or glucose intolerance also risk developing dementia.
3. Promotes Blood & Oxygen Flow
Poultry, fish, and other unprocessed meats are the basis of the Mediterranean diet. By eliminating processed meats and red meats, your loved one can reduce the risk of clogged arteries and blood clots. As a result, blood and oxygen can flow throughout the body, which helps the brain function at a normal rate. This can slow the progression of cognitive decline and reduce the risk of developing various age-related illnesses, including dementia.
4. Reduces Inflammation in the Brain
Vegetables, nuts, and fruits are some of the many anti-inflammatory foods included in the Mediterranean diet. Eating anti-inflammatory foods is a great way to preserve memory. These foods are known to fight against age-related cognitive decline by countering the harmful effects of free radicals, toxins, and inflammation.
5. Fights against Free Radicals
Healthy fat is the basis of the Mediterranean diet. All the food your loved one eats will need to be cooked in olive oil. Doing so provides the antioxidants needed to fight against free radicals. By clearing out the toxins, your loved one’s brain will be able to function normally, which could prevent dementia and other age-related illnesses.
Consider taking a break from your caregiving duties to speak to a doctor and create a healthy diet plan for your loved one. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and you need respite care, Boca Raton, FL, Angel Touch Home Care is here to help. Our respite caregivers are trained to assist older adults with a wide variety of everyday tasks, including meal prep, physical activity, and personal hygiene.
6. Reduces Stress Levels
The foods your loved one eats can keep his or her body more relaxed. However, some foods increase stress and anxiety. Chronic stress could lead to depression, which is a high risk factor associated with dementia and age-related cognitive decline. The Mediterranean diet plan not only includes eating healthy meals, but it also encourages people to enjoy time in nature and exercise regularly. The diet promotes healthy living and reduces stress levels.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care. Boca Raton families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Call Angel Touch Home Care today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.
