It’s important for seniors of all genders to remain healthy, but women face several health risks that aren’t as common among men. Because women’s bodies are different, they need to take a few extra steps to maintain optimal health.
1. Stop Smoking
Smoking can be more damaging for women than men. Though researchers aren’t precisely aware of the reasons, women smokers are far more likely to develop heart disease than male smokers and nonsmokers of both genders.
If your senior loved one needs help maintaining a higher quality of life, consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver. At-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. Understand Heart Attack Signs
The symptoms of heart attacks are different in men and women. Senior women are more likely to feel back, neck, arm, or shoulder discomfort during heart attacks. Chest pain may feel like an uncomfortable pressure that makes it difficult to breathe.
3. Take a Calcium Supplement
Postmenopausal women are at risk for developing osteoporosis later in life. Your loved one can reduce these risks by getting an adequate amount of calcium. This important mineral keeps bones strong even in old age.
4. Get Help at Home
Many senior women experience excessive stress because they’re trying to take care of themselves, their spouses, and their homes. Getting someone to assist with keeping the home clean or taking care of a spouse with a serious medical condition can reduce a senior woman’s stress and lower her blood pressure.
In Portland, respite care is a great help to many families. Caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times, which puts family caregivers at risk for burnout. However, an in-home caregiver can take over your loved one’s care, allowing you the time you need to focus on your own health, maintain a full-time job, or care for other members of your family.
5. Eat Plenty of Fiber
Fiber is important because it aids in digestion, lowers blood cholesterol, and reduces risks of colon cancer and diabetes. Senior women need at least 21 grams of fiber per day.
6. Exercise More Often
Though this tip for staying healthy applies to both genders, many senior women forget the importance of exercise. Weightlifting and cardio can boost heart health, coordination, balance, and strength, so they’re important for preventing serious health conditions and accidental injuries.
7. Avoid Excessive Iron
After the onset of menopause, women need 8 mg of iron per day. Too much iron can cause liver or heart damage, so your loved one shouldn’t take iron supplements or iron-containing multivitamins unless instructed by her doctor.
8. Get Regular Breast Examinations
As women age, their breasts can appear denser in mammogram screenings, which makes cancer difficult to detect. Your loved one can lower the risk of breast cancer by getting an examination regularly.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Portland, ME, Align Home Care Services is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. We will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call us today to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.