Losing hair is often thought to be just another part of aging, which is true to some degree. However, seniors should be aware their hair loss might have an underlying cause that can be prevented or treated. Here are five reasons seniors lose their hair and tips on preventing each cause.
1. Anemia
Iron deficiency is a common cause of thinning hair that’s also associated with fatigue and weakness. Seniors should strive to add iron-rich foods like spinach, legumes, and lean meats to their diets. In serious cases, physician-prescribed iron supplements can help seniors regrow thinning hair caused by anemia.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Fair Oaks, CA, 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.
2. Diabetes
The stress put on the body by fluctuating blood sugar levels can cause temporary hair loss. If diabetes goes untreated, hair will typically grow back at a slower rate than normal. Seniors without diabetes should practice preventative strategies such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding sugary foods, but those who have been diagnosed with the condition will need to stick to their management plans if they want to prevent hair loss.
A trained caregiver can provide additional support if your loved one has diabetes. 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 home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
3. Hypothyroidism
This hormonal condition can cause rapid hair loss. In some cases, hair may fall out in large chunks at a time. However, treating hypothyroidism with the proper prescribed medication often helps the hair grow back.
4. Brittle Follicles
Hair follicles naturally become smaller with age, leading to thinner strands that are more susceptible to damage. Many beauty treatments involving heat or chemicals can increase the brittleness of hair, but seniors who subject their hair to these harsh treatments can condition their hair regularly to keep it supple.
5. Medications
Most people are familiar with the effects chemotherapy has on hair, but other medications can also cause hair loss. Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, are a common cause of hair falling out. Though most seniors might not be able to stop taking their medications, they can talk to their doctors about options for slowing hair loss while they’re using these medications to manage their health conditions.
Helping a senior get the nutrition he or she needs can be exhausting, so it’s important for caregivers to make time to attend to their own wellbeing. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Fair Oaks, CA, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. To create a customized care plan for your loved one, call us at (916) 485-4663 today.