Eating nutritious foods is one of the best ways to stay healthy in the golden years because it can keep seniors energized and lower their chances of developing a chronic health condition like diabetes. Take a look at some of the healthiest foods for older adults.
1. Sardines
Eating sardines loaded with omega-3 fatty acids at least twice a week can prevent strokes, mood disorders, and heart disease. These little fish are also abundant in phosphorus, vitamin D, and calcium, which make bones stronger and aid in healing after an injury.
Seniors who need help preparing nutritious meals should consider professional in-home care. In Barrie, home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
2. Butternut Squash
Squash is a wonderful source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which are antioxidants known for protecting a senior’s vision. The vegetable is also rich in vitamins A and C, which are powerful nutrients that fight inflammation and infection in older adults.
3. Tomatoes
Unlike other vegetables, tomatoes are abundant in lycopene, which offers protection against lung, colon, breast, and prostate cancer. Tomatoes are also full of vitamin K and calcium, which are necessary for keeping bones strong.
4. Dark Chocolate
The flavonoids in dark chocolate can boost a senior’s memory and prevent his or her arteries from getting clogged. Eating a few pieces of dark chocolate weekly may also decrease bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels.
5. Kale
Whether juiced, cooked, or raw, vitamin A-rich kale can protect an older adult from optical disorders like macular degeneration that often come with age. The vegetable is also abundant in vitamin K and calcium that keep the bones healthy and strong.
Eating nutritious foods is one of the healthiest lifestyle choices for older adults. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly care. Barrie Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
6. Blueberries
Consuming blueberries on a daily basis can reduce an older adult’s cholesterol levels. Blueberries also contain anthocyanins, which give them their blue color and promote brain health in older adults.
7. Pears
Boron is one of the many nutrients found in pears. Seniors need boron to reduce their risk of bone-related diseases like osteoporosis. Pear skins contain a lot of fiber, and seniors who eat a diet abundant in fiber often experience lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels. Eating fiber-rich pears also makes seniors feel fuller longer, which can reduce the risk of eating too much and gaining weight.
8. Asparagus
Asparagus is rich in vitamin A, which can help seniors keep their eyes and immune system healthy. The fiber-rich vegetable can also boost heart health, reduce bad cholesterol levels, and help seniors maintain a healthy weight.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver to prepare nutritious meals for your loved one, reduce your caregiving burden, and lower your risk of experiencing burnout. Barrie respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed. To learn about our high-quality in-home care plans, give Home Care Assistance a call at 647-970-3803 today.