The need to lead a healthy lifestyle becomes more and more apparent with age. This includes doing everything we can to enhance the health of our brains. In order for our brains to work at their full potential, proper care and attention are required, just as they are for any other aspect of our bodies. In this blog, we will discuss some useful advice and adjustments that seniors can make to their way of life to help them make the best choices for brain health, as well as how support from loved ones and a senior home care team impacts their well-being.
Routine Activity Is Key
Maintaining a regular physical exercise routine is not only helpful for the body, but regular physical activity is also beneficial for the brain. One way to enhance blood flow to the brain, which is crucial for cognitive function, is to engage in activities such as walking, swimming, or low-impact workouts. Seniors should be encouraged to complete at least 150 minutes of exercise per week at a moderate level. While this may seem like a lot, a senior home care team can help them start with just a few minutes a day until they’re reaching that mark.
Choosing Foods That Feed the Brain
A diet that is varied and well-balanced is an essential component in the process of preserving brain health. Seniors should include foods that are abundant in vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Senior home care can introduce them to many wonderful options, including berries, fatty fish, nuts, leafy vegetables, and complete grains. In addition, home care aides can help seniors prep or even cook the foods if needed.
Incorporate Brain Games Into the Day
The bottom line is that seniors need to participate in activities that are mentally stimulating. Activities such as reading, putting together puzzles, playing board games, or acquiring new skills could fall under this category. The practice of consistently challenging their brain helps to build cognitive reserve, which can be protective against the deterioration of cognitive abilities.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
It’s amazing what a good night’s sleep can accomplish. Seniors should make getting quality sleep a priority since it’s not only good for their brain but also good for their health in general. A regular bedtime routine, comfortable bedding, and the ideal room temperature can all improve sleep.
Manage Stress
Managing stress is important because prolonged exposure to stress can have a detrimental effect on both mental and physical health. Seniors can try alternative methods of relieving stress, such as yoga, meditation, and exercises that include deep breathing, with seniors to see which ones work best.
In order to preserve the cognitive abilities and overall well-being of seniors, it is important for them to adopt a lifestyle that is beneficial to the brain. They will be able to take care of their brains and lead a life that is both rewarding and active when they are in their golden years if they start adopting these practices into their daily routine. By helping them along the way, a senior home care team and loved ones can work together to make the most of the tips above and the time they spend with seniors.
Sources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/brain-health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults
https://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health/staying-sharp.aspx
https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/brain-health-checklist-for-healthy-aging/
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING HIRING SENIOR HOME CARE IN CUPERTINO, CA, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT HOME HELPERS TODAY. (408) 317-4969.
