As seniors grow older, they may feel like they’re slowly losing control over their health and wellbeing. Minor aches and pains can become worse with time, and many older adults develop major health complications. However, there are a few habits that can boost physical, emotional, and psychological health in seniors. Here are a few healthy habits older adults should maintain.
1. Sticking to Nutrient-Dense Foods
Occasionally splurging on unhealthy treats is completely fine for most seniors, but the majority of their diets should consist of nutrient-dense foods. Superfoods like berries and leafy green vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that boost cognitive health and bolster the immune system. Many foods also contain antioxidants that can lower the risk of cancer and other serious diseases.
Sticking to nutrient-dense foods and making healthier lifestyle choices can help your loved one enjoy a high quality of life. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Align Home Care, a trusted provider of Portland home care. Services our caregivers provide include transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
2. Cutting Back on Processed Foods
Most people are unaware about how much processed food they eat since many foods marketed as being healthy actually contain hidden and unusual ingredients. Seniors who want to cut back on processed foods may need help reading ingredient lists, making meal plans, and researching their favorite foods.
3. Increasing the Quality and Quantity of Sleep
Very few things are as unhealthy as a chronic sleep deficit, and many caregivers aren’t aware of the true risks of sleep deprivation. One of the most effective ways to help seniors get more sleep is to design a strict bedtime routine, which might include having a glass of water, getting into bed at the same time each night, reading for 15 minutes, and turning off the lights.
4. Staying Connected with Friends and Family Members
Your loved one might experience loneliness, which is why you should promote socialization as much as possible. Dropping your loved one off at a dance class or arranging a family get-together could boost his or her cognitive and emotional health. You can also encourage your loved one to write letters to family members or call an old friend once a day.
For families living in Portland, ME, 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 Align Home Care, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
5. Attending Regular Medical Checkups
Preventative medical services are becoming more effective than ever. Seniors should consider visiting a dentist, eye doctor, and general practitioner at least once a year for comprehensive checkups. If your loved one is hesitant about going, try to make the day as fun as possible by visiting a favorite restaurant or heading to the movies after the checkup.
6. Correctly Managing Medications
During medical checkups, bring a list of all prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements your loved one is taking. A doctor or pharmacist can then double-check the medications to make sure they won’t interact with one another. You can also purchase a daily reminder box so your loved one knows exactly which medicine to take and when to take it.
7. Learning to Naturally Manage Stress
Even after retiring, many older adults continue to experience elevated stress levels. Some are worried about their finances or the health of their friends, and they need to learn how to manage those feelings in a healthy manner. In addition to exercising and socializing, your loved one should also try other natural treatments such as meditating or speaking with a therapist.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your loved one needs help alleviating stress, managing daily tasks, or making healthy lifestyle choices. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Portland Align Home Care can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your aging loved one, call us at (207) 835-3490 today.