Healthiest Foods for Elderly Stroke Survivors

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Healthy Foods for Senior Stroke Survivors in Barrie, ON

Senior stroke survivors need to take their prescribed medications and participate in a rehabilitation program recommended by their physicians. In addition to these interventions, diet may play an important healing role in the therapeutic treatment plan. Here are some of the best foods for senior stroke survivors to enhance healing and reduce certain risk factors for a future cerebral vascular accident.

Fresh Fish

Fresh fish such as salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. These substances have been shown to play an important role in the prevention of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes. Omega-3 fatty acids can decrease platelet aggregation, rendering the blood less likely to clot in abnormal ways. If your senior loved one eats more fresh fish, he or she may be lowering the risk for another stroke in the future. Eating omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the risk for post-stroke depression, which is common in seniors. While eating fish can reduce the risk for high blood pressure and blood clots, eating large amounts may interact with prescription anticoagulants and heighten the risk for abnormal bleeding, so before incorporating more fatty fish into your loved one’s diet, make sure to talk to his or her physician.

For many senior stroke survivors, shopping for fresh foods and preparing nutritious meals on their own can be challenging. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable elder care. Barrie, ON, families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

Almonds

Almonds contain magnesium, an important nutrient in the management of high blood pressure. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is an important risk factor for heart attacks and strokes, and when blood pressure is lowered as a result of dietary choices, lifestyle factors, or medication, the risk for stroke goes down. While a serving of magnesium-rich almonds can offer protection against cardiovascular disease and stroke, eating too many may lead to abdominal pain and constipation.

High-Fiber Foods

After a stroke, seniors may experience severe constipation and diminished muscle tone in the abdominal area. Eating high-fiber foods can promote optimal colon function so your loved one doesn’t experience difficulty or pain during bowel movements. It’s important that constipation be avoided because straining too much during bowel movements may trigger a hypertensive event that raises the risk for a stroke or heart attack. Even though consuming fiber-rich foods is an essential part of a post-stroke diet, eating too much fiber may lead to bloating, gas, diarrhea, and a decreased appetite. In addition to increasing fiber intake, talk to your loved one’s physician about recommending a stool softener that works in conjunction with fiber to enhance optimal bowel function. 

Constipation and other digestive issues may also result from stroke-related mobility limitations, making it increasingly challenging for family caregivers to care for their loved ones. If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Barrie, live-in care is available if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Home Care Assistance, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more.

Oranges and Bananas

Oranges and bananas contain potassium, which is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and optimal blood pressure. Eating these fruits can lower the risk for another stroke, increase mobility, reduce the risk of infection, enhance cognitive function, and prevent post-stroke dizziness and lightheadedness. Because of potassium’s mild diuretic effects, potassium-rich foods such as oranges and bananas may also reduce ankle edema, which often occurs after a stroke.

For many families, caring for a loved one who’s had a stroke can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate, professional caregiver can provide a great amount of support. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a Barrie at-home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call 647-970-3803 today.

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