Though the Mediterranean diet has been around since 1945, it has only recently grown in popularity among the elderly demographic. Since a major aspect of providing home care is helping an aging loved one maintain healthy eating habits, here are five ways the Mediterranean diet boosts senior health.
1. Facilitates Digestion
It’s crucial for your loved one to maintain a smooth and regular digestive system. Foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, can keep digestion from slowing down. Fiber-rich foods are often highlighted in the frequency chart of the Mediterranean diet and can correct digestion irregularities.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Boosts Brain Function
A study published in Neurology observed the eating habits of 674 people who were close to 80 years old. Those in the study who followed the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on eating low amounts of saturated fats and plenty of fish, had more white and gray matter in their brains, which meant their brains functioned more effectively than those who didn’t follow this type of diet.
3. Reduces the Risk of Osteoporosis
Eating foods rich in calcium can reduce the chances of getting osteoporosis. The Mediterranean diet consists of calcium-rich foods like spinach, dairy products, and beans. Greek yogurt is another good option with this diet because it contains both calcium and vitamin D, two nutrients known for helping bones stay strong.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of information and encouragement as your loved one adopts new healthy habits, including eating more nutritious foods. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Montgomery in-home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.
4. Aids in Heart Disease Prevention
Your loved one can lower his or her cholesterol and blood pressure by eating a large amount of plant-based foods like whole grains, vegetables, nuts, and fruits, which are the major foods featured in the Mediterranean diet. Following this diet regularly may also reduce the risk of having a stroke or heart attack. According to research from Harvard Medical School, women who ate these types of foods on a regular basis were 40 percent more likely to live past the age of 70.
5. Relieves Joint Inflammation
The staples of the Mediterranean diet include olive oil and oily fish. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are known for reducing joint inflammation. Consuming these foods may even help seniors battling arthritis by alleviating the swelling in their muscles and joints.
If your elderly loved one needs Montgomery live-in care, turn to Home Care Assistance. We offer a program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to focus on eating nutritious foods, exercising on a regular basis, maintaining strong social ties, and other lifestyle factors known to increase longevity. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (334) 593-3988 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.