How Aging Adults Can Lower Their Risk of Parkinson’s

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How to Lower an Older Adult's Risk of Parkinson's in Huntsville, AL

Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder with no cure. However, there are steps the elderly can take to prevent the disease and boost their wellbeing. Staving off this condition can enhance the nervous system and increase independence. Below you’ll find ways for seniors to reduce their risk of Parkinson’s disease.

Stay Physically Active

When seniors work out, they can stop the accumulation of various proteins in the brain that increase cell death. Inactivity could lead to reduced motor functions and speed up cognitive decline. However, older adults who stay physically active can boost dopamine production and increase brain functioning. Coordination and balance can also increase due to the physical movements, lowering the risk of falls that can cause head traumas. Keep in mind that head injuries can raise the odds of Parkinson’s disease. By exercising, the body blocks out harmful proteins and eliminates dangerous toxins and chemicals that impact the nervous system. Some of the best activities for seniors to add to their weekly routines include swimming, biking, jogging, and aerobics.

Older adults who need help exercising should consider professional in-home care. Huntsville home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Eat Healthy

Instead of cooking with butter and unhealthy oils, your senior loved one should prepare meals cooked in olive oil. He or she should also use more herbs and spices, such as turmeric, instead of salt. Healthy spices that contain antioxidants and other neuroprotective agents can protect against oxidative stress, which is linked to Parkinson’s disease. Another antioxidant your loved one should consume more of is flavonoids, which are found in fruits, some vegetables, and teas. Encourage your loved one to limit his or her intake of pork and red meats and consume more legumes, fish, and nuts to lower the risk of developing Parkinson’s.

Preparing nutritious meals is often a challenging task for seniors with Parkinson’s. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Avoid Toxins

Exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and other toxins could put your parent at higher risk for developing Parkinson’s disease. Take precautions when using these types of products within the home. Your loved one should also wear protective clothing and accessories outdoors, especially in places like the park, nature trails, and the backyard. If you’re painting your home, your loved one should avoid walking near the rooms until the paint has completely dried. Paint and various cleaning supplies contain solvents that can harm your parent’s health and increase the risk of diseases like Parkinson’s.

Learn More about Family History

Parkinson’s is hereditary, which is why your parent should stay informed about his or her family’s medical history. Although your loved one cannot control a genetic factor, he or she can make smarter lifestyle choices. Most seniors have a small risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, particularly if few people in their families have been diagnosed with the condition. Age also plays a role in Parkinson’s development. Still, a healthy eating plan, exercise routine, and stress management strategies could stave off the condition and boost your loved one’s quality of life in the senior years.

Many seniors in the later stages of Parkinson’s can continue to live at home, but they’ll likely need assistance from family members or other caregivers to do so safely. For many seniors in Huntsville, AL, 24-hour care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Home Care Assistance, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. Call us today at (256) 716-9940 to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.

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