If your mom or dad has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you know that taking a holistic approach to Alzheimer’s home care is the most recommended way to keep your mom or dad’s illness from progressing.
That means your mom or dad should eat healthy meals, get enough sleep, and do everything possible to maintain their cognitive skills for as long as possible. Eating foods that support brain health and keep the body healthy is a big part of that holistic approach to living with Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s home care is also recommended for seniors living with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s home care is specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s home care providers who provide this specialized care have training and experience working with seniors who have Alzheimer’s. They can be a great resource for your senior mom or dad and for you.
There is no specific diet that can help your mom or dad manage Alzheimer’s symptoms, but if your mom or dad adds these brain-boosting foods to their diet, it can help them keep their brain strong for as long as possible:
1. Fatty Fish
Fish like salmon, trout, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation in the brain. They also support brain cell health, which is important for memory. Your mom or dad should be eating fatty fish a couple of times a week.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the brain from damage caused by aging. They may also help improve memory. Blueberries are easy to add to cereals, yogurt, or as a snack. If blueberries aren’t in season where your senior parent lives, they can buy frozen ones.
3. Nuts
Nuts, especially walnuts, are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Walnuts contain omega-3s and other nutrients that help the brain. Eating a small handful of nuts each day can help your mom or dad keep their brain healthy.
4. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and collard greens are high in vitamins C, E, and K, which are good for the brain. They also contain antioxidants that may help slow memory loss. Include leafy greens in salads or cook them with meals. A home care provider can also put leafy greens in smoothies for your mom or dad.
5. Whole Grains
Whole grains, such as oats, brown rice, and quinoa, give the brain steady energy. They are rich in fiber and help keep blood sugar levels stable. Stable blood sugar is important for brain function, especially in seniors. Quinoa is soft and easy for most seniors to eat. And, it has a good amount of protein which can help your mom or dad feel full.
6. Avocados
Avocados are a source of healthy fats. These fats help improve blood flow to the brain. Avocados also contain vitamins that protect brain cells. Try adding avocado slices to salads, toast, or smoothies. Your mom or dad may also enjoy avocados in their eggs or with crackers.
7. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate, with at least 70% cocoa, is full of antioxidants and flavonoids, which are good for brain health. These compounds improve blood flow to the brain. A small piece of dark chocolate can be a healthy treat for memory support. If your mom or dad likes dark chocolate give them some for dessert or for a snack.
8. Eggs
Eggs are rich in choline, a nutrient important for memory and brain function. Choline helps produce chemicals in the brain that support memory. Eggs also contain B vitamins, which are helpful for brain health. They can be an easy addition to breakfast. Eggs are also easy for seniors to eat and swallow.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric is a yellow spice that contains curcumin and is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation can harm brain cells, so reducing it is helpful. Adding turmeric to soups, stews, or rice dishes is a simple way to add this brain-boosting spice.
10. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are high in antioxidants and minerals like magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. These minerals help with brain function and may improve memory. Pumpkin seeds are a crunchy snack that can be eaten on their own or added to salads.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in Kirkland, WA, please contact the caring staff at Acti-Kare Responsive In Home Care today!
Acti-Kare provides exceptional senior home care across King County, Pierce County, and Snohomish County; including Bellevue, Kirkland, Kenmore, Bothell, Lynnwood, Woodinville, Redmond, Sammamish, Shoreline, Everett, Renton, Tacoma, and surrounding areas.
