Discover Foods That Promote Senior Brain Health

Because therapy for dementia remains elusive, most doctors still encourage the elderly to take meaningful steps geared towards preventing and avoiding the risk of dementia onset. Here are a few tips that our elderly loved ones and their families need to know before starting the road to prevention:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids

The nutrient is mostly found in fish oil and is necessary for brain function. It plays a significant part in the cellular transmission. Research has shown that the seniors who eat fish lessen the chances of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease by 40 percent. Good sources of omega –3 fatty acids include mackerel, sardines, salmon, and albacore tuna.

2. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is vital in safeguarding of vascular health. It has also been established that vitamin C protects against the formation of brain plaque that is related to dementia. Rich sources of vitamin C consists of citrus fruits, tomatoes, leafy greens, strawberries, cantaloupe, and broccoli.

3. Vitamin B-Complex

Green peas and beans are good sources of vitamin B- complex nutrients. The vitamins protect seniors against brain shrinkage and also help a person maintain a healthy blood sugar level. The rise in sugar level causes brain inflammation that has been identified by scientists as the leading cause of dementia.

4. Vitamin D

Lack of Vitamin D in the diet has been shown as a possible signal of the development of dementia symptoms. It is suggested that a loved senior one consults with the doctor about incorporating supplements into his diet on a daily basis or shopping for Vitamin D-fortified foods like cereals and dairy products. A person should remember that proper diet for the seniors also involves avoiding dairy products that are full of fat, packaged foods, red meat, and fried foods.

Appropriate Physical Exercises for the Elderly

Physical exercises are important for the elderly as they help them in maintaining their independence, managing symptoms of illnesses, and in boosting their energy. Physical exercises undo most of the symptoms that go together with the aging process. Exercises also help the elderly in maintaining and in losing weight, enhancing their mobility, and reducing the impact of chronic diseases. Before an elderly person can engage in any physical working out, it is important to first get a clearance from a qualified health professional. The physician will be able to assess his health and advise if there are types of exercises that he is supposed to avoid due to his existing condition.

1. Cardio endurance exercises

Cardio endurance exercises involve the use of large group of muscles in rhythmic motion for a specific duration of time. The heart usually pumps fast during the workout. The training reduces fatigue and promotes endurance for daily activities such as house cleaning and walking. Cardio exercises comprises of stair climbing, cycling, hiking, rowing, walking, dancing, or playing tennis.

2. Strength and power training

Strength training involves the application of rhythmic motion using weights or any other external resistance. It builds muscles, improves balance, and also prevents the loss of bone mass. Strength and power training is resourceful to the elderly as it helps them steer clear of falls, and it improves their speed when crossing the streets or lifting objects.

3. Flexibility

Flexibility exercises involve the use of stationary stretches that maintain the joints and muscles agile thus preventing injury. Yoga is commonly used by many elderly people to boost their flexibility.

4. Balance

Yoga, Tai Chi, and posture exercises are suitable for the elderly as they boost their confidence in balance thus avoiding falls.