Though dementia research continues to progress, many versions of this common disorder are still not entirely curable. Instead of focusing on reversing memory loss and cognitive decline, dementia treatment frequently relies on slowing the progression of the disease. Slowing the speed at which dementia progresses gives seniors more time to spend with friends and family members. Here are a few ways seniors can slow the progression of dementia.
Get Plenty of Exercise
Exercising increases the amount of blood flow and oxygen to the brain, keeping it healthy and strong so dementia doesn’t worsen. Exercise is also beneficial because it reduces stress and prevents depression, which can manage the mood swings that often come with dementia. Seniors should try to get around a half-hour of exercise at least three days a week. Good options for seniors include gentle exercises like doing yoga, using a stationary bike, or swimming.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Victoria, BC, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Diets with high plant intake and low animal protein intake are associated with lower risks of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. This sort of diet provides important nutrients needed to maintain brain health. Avoiding certain foods that contain excessive amounts of trans fats, saturated fats, or problematic chemicals is also advisable. Eating a healthy diet controls obesity, high blood pressure, and some other risk factors for dementia, and it also provides antioxidants that protect the brain cells from free radical damage. A good diet for a senior with dementia typically includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish while limiting sugar, saturated fat, and red meat.
Maintain Cardiovascular Health
Several forms of dementia are associated with an impaired circulatory system that is unable to remove waste products from the brain or bring in fresh oxygen. High blood pressure is particularly likely to increase dementia progression, but other issues like a rapid heart rate can also cause problems. A healthy cardiovascular system reduces the risk for strokes that could result in further cognitive decline. To keep the cardiovascular system as healthy as possible, seniors need to exercise regularly, avoid using tobacco products, live a stress-free life, and maintain healthy blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Seniors who need help maintaining their health and making positive lifestyle changes can benefit from the assistance of a professional in-home caregiver. Victoria at-home care 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.
Keep the Mind Active
Using the mind strengthens the connections between all of the brain cells, making it easier for the brain to access stored information and respond to new input. Seniors can exercise the brain with activities like playing musical instruments, writing in a journal each day, learning new skills, and solving puzzles. There are many apps and video games specifically designed to boost memory, spatial awareness, and mental processing.
Looking after the basic needs of an aging adult with dementia can be challenging. For dementia care Victoria families can count on, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our compassionate caregivers use revolutionary memory care programs to help seniors stave off the progression of dementia, and they can also assist with a wide variety of important everyday tasks, including bathing, grooming, exercise, and cooking. To learn more about our reliable senior care plans, contact us today at (250) 592-4881.