 Foods that are good for seniors are, of course, good for everyone. But the elderly face special challenges when it comes to nutrition because the impact is magnified as the body ages. Oftentimes, elder malnutrition is caused by the higher cost of healthy foods, dental problems that make it difficult to eat, and medical conditions. However, a healthy diet will help keep the body free of disease, keep intellect strong, and extend quality of life. One of the superfoods, virgin olive oil, can provide significant health benefits including reducing pain and inflammation. Fruits and vegetables with deep color, such as broccoli and blueberries, are great for the immune system. Salmon and fish oil are good for cardiovascular health, and tea has both anti-inflammatory and cancer fighting properties. In fact, most of the superfoods for seniors have multiple health benefits with nutrients that fight disease. One advantage of using a professional home care agency is that caregivers will provide nutritious meal planning and will prepare meals for your loved ones. Read more at tinyurl.com/foodsforseniors. |
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Dear Katy
By Kate Dougherty, Certified Senior Advisor
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Dear Katy - Can I get in touch with a home care agency during holidays, evenings, or weekends? O.R., Santa Cruz, CA.
Dear O.R. - If you are working with a reputable agency, you should be able to reach a staff member 24-hours a day. Most agencies will provide a 24-hour on-call phone number and a certified senior advisor's cell phone to be reached at any time. This will vary between agencies, so make sure you ask these types of questions before you commit to an agency.
Dear Katy- What kind of training and certifications do agency caregivers have? M.B., Provo, UT
Dear M.B. - Training and certifications vary for each caregiver, but most agencies require a caregiver to have at least two years experience. I always recommend that families hire agencies that are part of the National Private Duty Association (NPDA) because the agencies listed have strict requirements. To learn more about the NPDA, or to search for member agencies, visit their website at privatedutyhomecare.org.
(Submit your questions to kdougherty@professionalhc.com .
Follow her on twitter .)
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- Almonds and Walnuts - Almonds contain unsaturated fats and walnuts have omega-3 fatty acids, which both help keep the heart healthy.
- Salmon - Not only is salmon easy to eat with its soft texture, it contains omega-3 fatty acids that can boost heart health. Also contains potassium that helps muscles perform optimally and helps prevent fatigue.
- Fruit Smoothies - Use non-fat yogurt and berries, fortified with ground flaxseed. To sweeten, use honey or real maple syrup which is very high in antioxidants.
- Dark Green Leafy Vegetables - Vegetables provide fiber and have high levels of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Foods with Zinc - Foods high in zinc, such as oysters, red meat, and crab help wounds heal and reduce eye disease.
- Colorful Fruits - Concord grapes, blueberries, and mango fight cancer, ward off heart disease and improve the immune system.
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Healthy Aging Workout DVD
This beginner's DVD exercise program was specifically created for seniors, both men and women.
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SeniorsTech.Net
Learn how to set up smart phones, share photos, and create online social profiles.
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... skipping meals will slow down your metabolism?
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