The aging process can lead to serious health issues that put seniors at a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. However, there are a few things you can do to reduce your aging loved one’s Parkinson’s risk.
Increase Vitamin D Intake
Many seniors with Parkinson’s disease are deficient in vitamin D. By eating healthy meals and getting more exposure to the sun, seniors can increase their vitamin D intake. The vitamin can help seniors stave off Parkinson’s disease, osteoporosis, certain types of cancers, and various age-related health issues. Make sure to keep your loved one’s skin protected while he or she is outdoors. Exposure to the sun should be done moderately and safely. For example, your loved one could work in the garden to increase his or her dexterity and get the vitamin D needed to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, an in-home care provider Waterloo, ON, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Serve Foods with Nicotine and Caffeine
When consumed in moderation, nicotine can reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Though your loved one should refrain from smoking cigarettes or using tobacco products, he or she can get a healthy amount of nicotine by eating peppers at least two times a week. Red peppers contain the most nicotine. Drinking coffee and tea can provide your loved one with polyphenols that protect the brain cells from Parkinson’s disease. The polyphenols also protect the neurons and control the release of dopamine, which keeps muscles stable. White tea is the better option because it has more polyphenols than green tea or coffee.
Encourage Physical Activity
Regardless if your loved one chooses to walk around the home or join the local gym, engaging in physical activity can help him or her fight inflammation and lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Staying active could also reduce your loved one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes as well as the risk of accidents and injuries that disrupt the immune system, cause inflammation, and lead to Parkinson’s disease.
Aging adults who need help around the house, transportation to medical appointments and social events, and assistance with exercise can benefit from having an in-home caregiver. Waterloo seniors can enjoy greater independence and receive regular mental and social stimulation when relying on a trusted professional who is expertly trained in various aspects of senior care.
Suggest the Mediterranean Diet
Many doctors are encouraging seniors to try the Mediterranean diet because it lowers the risk of Parkinson’s disease. The Mediterranean diet calls for eating more fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods that protect against Parkinson’s. The omega-3-rich oils and fish in the Mediterranean diet fight against the antioxidants that damage the cells in the brain responsible for movement. When seniors eat healthy foods, the brain cells known as neurons are able to produce more dopamine. A lack of dopamine could affect the way your elderly loved one moves around, and it can cause Parkinson’s disease and other health issues.
Encouraging a senior loved one to make healthy lifestyle choices can be a challenging task. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Waterloo, ON, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. To learn about our high-quality in-home care plans, give us a call at (519) 954-2111 today.