5 Awesome Brain-Boosting Supplements for Older Adults

5 Supplements that Can Boost Brain Health in Seniors

By 8  am On

There are supplements older adults can take to enhance their brain function as they age. For seniors who are concerned about maintaining a sharp memory well into their 60s, 70s, and beyond, taking the following five supplements can prove beneficial. 

1. Bacopa Monnieri

Taking Bacopa monnieri, or waterhyssop, supplements can boost memory and protect the brain from degenerative diseases. Waterhyssop may also enhance problem-solving skills, attention span, and the ability to learn.

Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to boost your parent’s cognitive health. Homecare services agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

2. Turmeric

Curcumin is the compound responsible for turmeric’s golden yellow color, and it has been shown to increase attention span and memory. According to a study done by Andrew Scholey at the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology at Swinburne University, turmeric can slow the progression of cognitive decline. The participants in this study also claimed their attention span and working memory were greatly enhanced within a few hours of taking the supplements. 

3. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Taking ALCAR supplements may increase a senior’s mental energy levels while maintaining his or her brain health. ALCAR may also increase blood flow to the brain. The supplement has been shown to increase alertness and boost cognitive health in older adults. Seniors can also use ALCAR supplements for an array of mental conditions that include depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and memory loss. 

If your senior loved one has Alzheimer’s and needs help handling daily tasks, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Columbia Assisting Hands Home Care provides reliable caregivers around the clock to help your loved one age in place safely and comfortably while living with Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 facilitates the conversion of carbohydrates into energy the brain needs to work properly. B12 is a necessary vitamin for keeping an older adult’s brain and nervous system healthy and functioning at peak levels. Regularly taking vitamin B12 supplements may also increase focus and memory and reduce the risk of depression.

5. DHA

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can aid in preserving and boosting an older adult’s brain function and health. The supplement may also enhance a senior’s multitasking and problem-solving skills and memory. With age, the brain naturally shrinks, but DHA can preserve an aging adult’s brain volume. 

A study done at UCLA found that seniors lacking in DHA have smaller brains that can age more quickly and lose memory capabilities faster than those with normal DHA levels. The participants in this study were an average age of 67 and dementia free. 

Older adults can boost their mental health and delay the onset of cognitive decline by making healthy lifestyle choices. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of senior home care. Columbia Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 443-233-1245 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.