Aging and being female are two of the biggest risk factors for developing breast cancer. Though senior women can’t turn back the hands of time or change their biology, here’s a list of five other major risk factors for breast cancer that can be reduced.
1. Taking Hormones
After menopause, many women take estrogen to relieve symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. However, the use of hormone therapy has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Your loved one should work closely with her doctor to weigh the benefits and risks of taking hormones. If hormone therapy is necessary, your loved one should try to take the lowest effective dose possible.
2. Indulging in Too Much Wine
When research revealed red wine was good for the heart, many seniors rejoiced. However, it’s important to note alcohol in any form is a risk factor for cancer. Skipping the after-dinner drink or limiting alcohol to a single serving per night can help your loved one prevent breast cancer.
If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Columbia families can trust. 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 boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia.
3. Leading a Sedentary Lifestyle
Exercise gets oxygen-rich blood flowing throughout the body, which impacts cellular health. Because abnormal cells can form breast cancer, staying active is often an effective preventative method that offers many other benefits. The American Cancer Society recommends all older women strive for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. Though this number may seem high, your loved one can exercise in small ten-minute increments several times a day to reach this goal, and you can hire a caregiver to help her manage a regular fitness routine.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
4. Eating an Unhealthy Diet
Malnutrition is a huge concern when it comes to breast cancer prevention because many foods contain antioxidants that guard against cancer. Your loved one should eat a variety of superfoods, such as blueberries, to give her body the fuel it needs to fight breast cancer. Limiting high-fat foods can also prevent breast cancer because being overweight is another significant risk factor.
5. Being Exposed to Toxins
Many seniors are already aware tobacco is associated with breast cancer, and quitting smoking can reduce the risk and increase other aspects of your loved one’s health. Additionally, your loved one should avoid other pollutants in her environment, such as the PCBs often found in plastics. Making a few healthy lifestyle choices can help your loved one prevent breast cancer and many other serious diseases. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Columbia, MD, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. Our 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. If your loved one needs professional care, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
