Whether you’ve noticed early warning signs of dementia in your senior parent or you simply want to protect your loved one’s cognitive health, there are a few foods that have been proven to be effective in delaying the onset of this condition. Here’s a list of delicious and nutritious foods your loved one may want to include in his or her diet.
Leafy Greens
Greens such as kale, spinach, and collards are rich in B vitamins and folate. These vitamins have been shown to boost brain function. The body uses B vitamins to create neurotransmitters in the brain. Foods high in B-complex vitamins can also boost overall mood by reducing stress and anxiety that can lead to depression.
Seniors with mobility limitations or serious health conditions may find it difficult to shop for groceries and prepare meals on their own, which can result in not getting proper nutrition. 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 Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elderly home care Florence, KY, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Cherries & Other Berries
Cherries and berries contain anthocyanin, which gives the fruits their vibrant color. Anthocyanin is a powerful antioxidant that can prevent damage by free radicals that may lead to dementia. These fruits also contain vitamins C and E, antioxidants that can boost brain function, cardiovascular health, and the immune system.
Beans & Legumes
Beans are an excellent source of iron, folate, potassium, and magnesium for seniors. Iron is an essential part of hemoglobin that carries oxygen throughout the body, including the brain. Folate, potassium, and magnesium promote healthy neuron function. Legumes also increase levels of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which is vital for brain function.
A professional caregiver with training and expertise in nutrition can be a wonderful asset for your loved one. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of in-home care. You can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide an individualized care plan to meet your elderly loved one’s unique care needs. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
Olive Oil
This oil, popular in many Mediterranean dishes, is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can prevent the brain lesions associated with dementia. Studies show that people who regularly eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduce their overall risk of dementia. In addition to olive oil, you can find omega-3 fatty acids in flax seeds and in fish such as salmon.
Pumpkin & Squash
Pumpkin and squash are loaded with antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, and they contain no saturated fat or cholesterol, qualities that promote cardiovascular health and increase blood flow to the brain. These members of the gourd family also contain B vitamins, folate, and iron that can protect your loved one’s brain health and cognitive function.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, compassionate help is available. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Florence families can rely on Assisting Hands Home Care of Northern Kentucky to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (859) 328-2656.
