As people age, they often have a more difficult time maintaining their overall health. However, seniors are living longer today, and a few lifestyle changes can increase their chances of a healthier life. Consider these five tips.
1. Stay Active
Staying active can dramatically increase longevity. Mild exercise, even if it only means taking a leisurely stroll after dinner, can increase circulation and mobility, reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis, and boost cardiovascular health. In addition, physical activity can also lower blood pressure and even eliminate the need for antihypertensive medications. These medications sometimes lead to dangerous side effects such as poor eyesight and dizziness, which can heighten the risk of a life-threatening fall.
Home care service 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. Socialize More Often
Maintaining strong relationships with family and friends can add years to your loved one’s life. Too often, seniors become isolated and lonely, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness and depression, both of which can shorten a person’s life span.
Becoming depressed can raise blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Depression, sadness, hopelessness, and being isolated can also cause seniors to stop eating, leading to weight loss, suppressed immunity, and dangerous nutritional deficiencies. However, regular socialization gives your loved one something to look forward to and provides hope for the future.
For families living in Columbia, Home Care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
3. Consider Aspirin
Taking low-dose aspirin on a daily basis may increase a senior’s life span. Aspirin decreases platelet aggregation, making blood less likely to clot and preventing cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Aspirin therapy may even decrease the risk of certain cancers, such as those of the gastrointestinal tract. However, your loved one shouldn’t start an aspirin regimen unless recommended by his or her physician.
4. Take Vitamins
Elderly people often have diminished appetites as a result of preexisting medical conditions or medication side effects, which can raise the risk of nutritional deficiencies. If not recognized and addressed, these deficiencies can lead to serious illnesses. Nutritional deficiencies such as low iron can cause fatigue, muscle pain, shortness of breath, abnormal bleeding, and chest pain. Taking a daily multivitamin can reverse the negative effects of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. As with aspirin, make sure your loved one sees a doctor before taking any new vitamins.
5. Get a Pet
Having other living, breathing creatures around gives seniors a reason to take care of themselves because they know their pets depend on them. Pet ownership can also combat loneliness and depression, and it provides both the owner and the animal with love, exercise, and companionship.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional care. Columbia, MD, 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. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 443-233-1245.
