Encouraging Your Aging Parent to be Healthier

Everyone has room to improve when it comes to healthy living, but aging adults may find it more challenging to replace bad habits with good ones. Even if seniors are dealing with age-related health issues, they can certainly benefit from adopting healthier habits. Family caregivers with aging parents should closely examine their loved one’s home and lifestyle to see if improvements can be made.

It’s Never Too Late to be Healthy

Most aging adults have one or more chronic health issues that they must deal with. Often, their health limits their ability to live independently because they cannot do everything for themselves to remain safe and healthy. Seniors also have a higher risk of getting sick because of a weakened immune system. Family caregivers and senior care providers can do a lot to help aging parents get healthier by focusing on areas where the aging adults rely on them.

Too many seniors mistakenly think that adopting healthy habits won’t have a positive effect on them, or that it’s too late for them to make changes. However, studies show that it is never too late for seniors to practice healthy living and they can be quite successful if they have support from friends and family. All they need to do is focus on a few areas with small goals. As they find success in making a few lifestyle changes, they can do more. As they see the results of healthy habits, elderly parents will be encouraged to keep going.

Upgrade to Healthy Aging

One of the best ways for elderly adults to start living healthier is to adjust the diet. Family caregivers and senior care providers who do the grocery shopping and prepare the meals have a lot of influence in this department. By focusing on whole grains, lean protein, fresh fruit and vegetables, and low-fat dairy, aging adults can enjoy a nutritious diet that helps their body stay healthy and strengthens the immune system.

Another area where aging parents can tackle healthy aging is treating the body itself. Exercise and activity are important to developing strength and stamina, to give them more energy and reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents. Getting restful sleep can also boost energy levels and promote wellness. Other personal care habits to implement include good hygiene, regular medical visits, taking medications properly as prescribed by a doctor and keeping their living space clean and sanitized.

Any healthy aging plan should also include a focus on mental and emotional well-being. Seniors often deal with tremendous stress in their lives, from worrying about finances to dealing with grief. It’s easy for seniors with mobility issues to suffer from loneliness, isolation and depression. Studies show that elderly adults with mental health issues are more likely to struggle physically as well. Family caregivers and senior care providers need to promote social interaction by going on outings, arranging family gatherings and attending community events.

Family caregivers must take a good look at their aging mom or dad’s current lifestyle to see if there’s any room for a healthy makeover. The benefits are numerous and contribute to a longer and fuller life.

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Old Bridge, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care Serving Somerset and Middlesex/Union Counties today. Call (732) 607-8870.