Antioxidants fight against free radicals and inhibit oxidation, which can help seniors enjoy a higher quality of life. Most of these substances can be found in the foods and beverages seniors consume. Strawberries, salmon, tuna, artichokes, pecans, spinach, and kale are some of the antioxidant-rich foods older adults should add to their diets. Here are some of the benefits antioxidants provide seniors.
Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Free radicals are highly reactive chemicals known to damage cells and increase the risk of cancer among aging adults. Although free radicals are formed naturally in the body, they can be combated by antioxidants, which prevent the free radicals from causing damage to DNA, cell membranes, and proteins. Some of the cancers antioxidants can prevent in seniors are skin, bladder, brain, and prostate cancer. If your loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, antioxidants can fight inflammation, which helps with the treatment process.
If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, an in-home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.
Boost Heart Health
Heart disease is a major threat to senior health for various reasons, such as inactivity, poor eating habits, smoking, and the inability to control the stress associated with cognitive decline. Poor heart health could put your loved one at higher risk for strokes, heart attacks, and many other cardiovascular diseases. However, consuming high amounts of antioxidants boosts heart health. Antioxidants have anticlotting properties that lead to better circulation.
Lead to Better Cognitive Health
Consuming antioxidants could boost your loved one’s memory and lower the risk of dementia. The substances could help your loved one maintain his or her vascular health, which repairs neurons and prevents brain damage caused by aging. Since antioxidants work as mediators in the central nervous system, the substances can stave off inflammation and boost cognitive health. Many brain diseases in seniors are associated with oxidative damage, but most of them can be prevented or reversed with a high intake of antioxidants. These substances are very powerful and can prevent other conditions, including Alzheimer’s.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, compassionate professional help is just a phone call away. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Fair Oaks families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.
Increase Bone Health
Growing older may cause your loved one’s bone health to decrease, putting him or her at higher risk for developing osteoarthritis. However, a high intake of antioxidants could increase your loved one’s bone health and lower the risk of developing osteoporosis and other bone diseases. The anti-inflammatory properties found in antioxidants, such as vitamin C, combat the free radicals responsible for arthritis symptoms. Your loved one should eat plenty of berries, which can offer much-needed relief from arthritis pain.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of homecare Fair Oaks, California, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (916) 485-4663.