Top Tips for Lowering Cholesterol
If your older family member has been diagnosed with high cholesterol, it’s important for them to do what they can to bring their levels down. High cholesterol is dangerous because it causes blood vessels to become narrower, making it hard for blood to move through them. When this happens, it increases the risk of your aging relative developing heart disease or having a stroke. There are many things that can be done for reducing cholesterol. Below are a couple of suggestions for ways your aging relative can lower their cholesterol levels as well as ways that home care can help.
Follow the Doctor’s Treatment Plan
The number one thing older adults can do to improve their cholesterol levels is to listen to what the doctor says. The doctor may prescribe medication. They are also likely to suggest lifestyle changes. Be sure the senior understands the doctor’s instructions. Take notes during the appointment and ask questions. It can also be helpful to go over the directions for taking the medicine with the pharmacist. Ask what kinds of side effects may occur and when the senior should call their doctor.
Home care can help your aging relative to stick to the doctor’s treatment plan by reminding them when to take their medicine. Home care providers can also drive the senior to the pharmacy to pick up prescriptions and to the doctor’s office for follow up appointments.
Follow a Heart Healthy Diet
Eating a heart healthy diet will help to keep cholesterol levels under control. A heart healthy diet is one that:
- Includes less saturated fat. Saturated fats are present in red meats and full-fat dairy products. Saturated fat tends to increase the bad cholesterol levels.
- Avoids trans fats. Trans fats are the most dangerous kind of fat. They are found in store-bought baked goods and some kinds of margarine.
- Includes healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish are an excellent source of omega-3s. Though they don’t have benefits in terms of cholesterol levels, they do help to protect the heart.
- Increases soluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps to keep the body from absorbing excess cholesterol. Soluble fiber is found in oatmeal, apples, pears, kidney beans, and other foods.
A home care provider can prepare meals that are both heart healthy and that your older family member will enjoy. Home care providers can sit down with the senior to plan meals using the healthy foods they like. A home care provider can even take the older adult grocery shopping and help them to choose the best ingredients.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/reduce-cholesterol/art-20045935
https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/features/11-tips-to-cut-your-cholesterol-fast#1
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-lower-cholesterol
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20350800
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Manalapan, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care today. Call (732) 607-8870.
The Care Street mission is straightforward and compelling: to provide a comprehensive range of the highest quality home health services in a professional and efficient manner that will enhance our clients' quality of life and empower families to keep their loved one at home.
Care Street has earned a reputation of excellence among hundreds of families, and is recommended by medical professionals and hospital discharge planners throughout the State.
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