If your aging loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it’s time to take a fresh look at his or her diet. Filling your loved one’s plate with nutrient-dense foods isn’t going to reverse or cure this cognitive disorder, but it might reduce some of the most prominent symptoms. Establishing a healthy meal plan can also boost your loved one’s physical health, which can prevent a variety of medical complications in the coming years. Here are some of the healthiest foods to include in your loved one’s meal plan.
1. Olive Oil
There are quite a few reasons many leading health experts suggest older adults with Alzheimer’s should add olive oil to their diets. In addition to protecting the brain from free radicals, this superfood also has strong anti-inflammatory properties. As a bonus, olive oil can easily be added to several dishes without changing the taste or texture.
2. Fatty Fish
Studies continue to show fatty fish is one of the healthiest foods for the brain. When fatty fish is eaten regularly, it can minimize the symptoms of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Some types of fish you might want to add to your loved one’s diet include cod, herring, mackerel, salmon, and rainbow trout.
Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of a highly trained professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care service. 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.
3. Lentils
If your loved one has a difficult time eating enough protein, you might want to add lentils to his or her diet. These legumes are easy to digest, and they’re packed with some important nutrients. Lentils are also relatively easy to swallow, which makes them a good option for older adults who have difficulty eating dense foods.
4. Leafy Greens
One of the most important foods for seniors with Alzheimer’s is leafy green vegetables, and aging adults should try to have multiple servings of this type of produce every day. Almost all leafy greens are considered superfoods because they’re dense in nutrients, easy to digest, and low in calories. Those who don’t like the taste or texture of leafy green vegetables should juice them with some flavorful fruit or add them to their favorite smoothies.
If you need help planning and preparing healthy meals for your loved one, a professional caregiver can be a great source of support. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading Fair Oaks senior care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
5. Green Tea
When it comes to nutritious beverages, very few options are as healthy as green tea. A recent study conducted at the University of Michigan found some of the properties in green tea slow the growth of protein plaques in the brain, which could reduce the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Having a cup of green tea in the morning is an excellent alternative to drinking other popular beverages, such as soda and sugar-laden coffee.
6. Whole Grains
If you want to keep your loved one’s energy levels consistent throughout the day, serve plenty of whole grains. These complex carbohydrates are broken down very slowly in the body, providing long-term fuel so your loved one can exercise, socialize, and engage in stimulating activities.
7. Supplemental Shakes
In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, many seniors with the disease completely lose interest in all types of healthy food. If that sounds like your own situation, consider supplementing your loved one’s diet with high-quality shakes. A healthy shake provides a good mixture of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Fair Oaks Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. Reach out to us at Home Care Assistance if you need compassionate professional at-home care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (916) 485-4663.