What Can Happen if Seniors Eat Too Much Salt?

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The Risks of a High Sodium Diet in Carmichael, CA

Sodium is an essential mineral that’s necessary for the body to function properly. When too much is consumed, however, it can cause serious health concerns. We may think our food tastes better with a little added salt, but along with that delicious dinner come several risks to overall health and wellness. A high-sodium diet is especially dangerous for aging adults because they’re more susceptible to the dangers this mineral can cause if it’s consumed in excess. Here are some of the major problems a high-sodium diet can cause. 

High Blood Pressure

High sodium intake causes the body to retain water. This leads to a rise in blood pressure, which can result in further complications in the brain, arteries, heart, and kidneys.

Reducing sodium intake isn’t the only way older adults can boost their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior home care. 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.

Kidney Failure

Overloading the body with sodium can cause the kidneys to work overtime trying to eliminate what the body can’t use. In time, this can lead to kidney stones, improper kidney function, or even total kidney failure.

It can be challenging for overworked caregivers to assist seniors with preparing nutritious meals every day. In Carmichael, home care service agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

Breathing Difficulties

Excessive sodium can cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs. This may lead to breathing difficulties, which can make staying active and completing daily tasks difficult, and it can also result in respiratory complications, respiratory failure, or, in extreme cases, death.

To avoid these and other health complications, it’s important that seniors modify their diets as they age. Seniors and their caregivers need to become aware of which foods to avoid and which foods to consume more frequently. For instance, sodium can sneak into a diet through processed foods, salad dressings, and even some condiments. Instead of opting for these items, encourage your loved one to enjoy flavorful food by incorporating fresh herbs and spices or fruit juice into recipes. Seniors should also eat more fresh vegetables, lean meats, and fruits, since these are naturally low in sodium. 

From preparing low-sodium meals to exercising on a daily basis, older adults may need help with a wide variety of everyday activities. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Carmichael, CA, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s. Call one of our Care Managers at (916) 485-4663 to learn about our customized in-home care plans.

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