As individuals age, falling becomes a serious risk and can result in severe consequences that affect health and mobility. Recent studies have found certain foods that are good sources of vitamin D can boost the skeletal system by assisting calcium uptake that regenerates bone. With that information in mind, here are some delicious (and surprising) foods that can reduce fall risk among older adults.
Dairy Products
Most commercially produced dairy foods are fortified with vitamin D. Milk, yogurt, and cheese are good sources of the nutrient, and the recommended daily allowance (RDA) can easily be found on the products’ labels.
Eating a healthy diet and exercising are essential to maximizing bone strength, and a professional caregiver can be a fantastic resource if your loved one needs help with these activities. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of at-home care. You can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide an individualized care plan to meet your elderly loved one’s unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
Seafood
There aren’t many foods that are natural sources of vitamin D, but this vitamin is readily found in several varieties of seafood. Wild-caught salmon, tuna, trout, swordfish, herring, flounder, tilapia, sardines, and mackerel are all good sources of the nutrient.
Mushrooms
Vitamin D is found in many varieties of mushrooms, and many commercial growers are exposing the plants to special light sources that enhance their vitamin D levels. Portobellos contain the highest amounts, followed by shiitake and maitake mushrooms.
For some older adults, shopping for fresh foods and preparing nutritious meals on their own can be challenging. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Barrie, ON, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
Cereal
An easy way for seniors to ensure they’re getting enough vitamin D is to eat fortified cereal. Most brands and varieties on the market have the nutrient added during manufacturing, and with the addition of fortified milk, older adults can get a healthy boost of vitamin D at breakfast or any time of day.
Other Sources
Vitamin D can be found naturally in some other foods, although in smaller amounts than what’s provided by the above-mentioned sources. Pork, eggs, and soy yogurt contain about 15 percent of the RDA, and tofu provides about 25 percent. Cod liver oil contains a large amount of vitamin D, but it contains dangerously high levels of vitamin A, which may pose a risk of toxicity.
Since the consequences of falls can be so severe for seniors, reducing the risk of falling is essential. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior care. Barrie families trust Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Home Care Assistance team at 647-970-3803 today.