Seniors need to take care of their health to enjoy a great quality of life. Unfortunately, while they want to make healthy lifestyle choices, they might not know how. With companion care at home, seniors gain the confidence and direction to improve their outlook and learn vital skills to continue living independently. The following are some suggestions that both home care and loved ones can implement to assist seniors in maintaining their health.
Physical Health Suggestions
- Exercise regularly: Seniors should be encouraged to find a form of regular physical activity suited to their ability and current fitness level. To increase their cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility, they should consider engaging in activities such as walking, swimming, tai chi, or yoga. When they have companion care at home, they have a partner to complete these activities with them, encouraging them to be consistent.
- Maintain a healthy diet: In order to maintain a healthy weight, it is important to consume a diet that is well-balanced and consists of a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, seniors need to ensure they are drinking enough water.
- Maintain health appointments: Maintaining a regular checkup schedule with their healthcare provider to track their overall health, manage any chronic problems, and address any concerns as soon as possible is important.
Pay attention to medications: Medication management requires that seniors pay attention to the directions their physician gives them for taking their prescriptions and do so exactly as directed. They should also have an up-to-date list of their medications and discuss any concerns or adverse effects with their primary care physician. Tracking the changes in medication and their concerns might be difficult. By discussing the issues with them regularly, their companion care at home and loved ones can help them remember when the time comes.
Mental Health Suggestions
Play games and work on problem-solving skills: Seniors can maintain their mental understanding by participating in activities challenging their brains, such as solving puzzles, reading, expanding their knowledge, or playing games requiring strategic thinking. It is beneficial to maintaining cognitive function and may lessen the likelihood of cognitive decline. This is another area where having companion care at home is essential since they can engage with seniors consistently.
- Increase socialization: Seniors should participate in social activities by spending time with friends and family and participating in activities in the local community. Having positive social ties is beneficial to their mental and emotional health.
- Focus on the positive: Loved ones can encourage seniors to keep a positive attitude and engage in activities that offer them joy. Meanwhile, seniors’ companion care at home aids can talk with them about stress management strategies such as meditation, deep breathing, and hobbies they enjoy.
Several things can be done to support seniors as they navigate the various changes that come with aging. It’s important to focus on each to ensure optimum health and well-being. The support they receive from having companion care at home and the encouragement they get from their loved ones is vital to their success.
Source:
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/healthy-eating-physical-activity-for-life/health-tips-for-older-adults
https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/healthy-aging.htm
https://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health/understanding/index.aspx
If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Cranford, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Adult Alternative Home Care today. 888-664-1769
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