Did you know some treatments for ailments that commonly affect seniors can be found right in the kitchen? If you care for an older loved one, consider looking in the kitchen cabinets for some helpful home remedies. Give these all-natural solutions a try.
1. Ginger
For thousands of years, cultures around the world have used ginger as a natural remedy for stomach upset. The root spice contains anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate irritation. Ginger comes in numerous forms, including natural ginger ale and ginger lozenges. You can even prepare ginger tea by boiling freshly chopped ginger root in water. This fragrant brew can eliminate gas pains and other types of minor gastrointestinal distress, such as indigestion, nausea, and heartburn. In addition, some studies suggest ginger can relieve arthritis pain.
2. Cinnamon
Another powerful spice, cinnamon has been clinically proven to lower cholesterol levels, preventing heart disease. One study also showed consumption of the spice lowered blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Montgomery live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life.
3. Honey
Honey contains bacteria-fighting enzymes and nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and manganese, that soothe irritated throats and reduce the life span of the common cold. If your loved one is showing early symptoms of a cold, add a few teaspoons of honey to a cup of herbal tea, and he or she should find relief in a few hours. Honey can also quiet your loved one’s cough, someties more effectively than over-the-counter cough suppressants.This sweet treat can also be soothing if your loved one has a minor cut or burn. Just place a dab of honey on the wound and cover it with gauze.
If you’re looking for ways to boost your loved one’s health, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Montgomery, AL, 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.
4. Cranberries
If your loved one is prone to urinary tract infections, encourage him or her to consume cranberries. Drinking one to two glasses of pure cranberry juice daily can prevent recurrent UTIs.
5. Milk
A glass of warm milk before bed can work wonders for insomnia. The beverage contains tryptophan, which brings on a feeling of drowsiness. A combination of warm milk with honey can also be helpful if your loved one has a raw, dry throat. The drink can coat irritated tissues and soothe the discomfort.
6. Garlic
If your loved one feels a cold or sore throat coming on, try garlic. The antibacterial and antiviral properties of garlic make it a tasty choice for easing senior cold symptoms. Raw garlic contains a component called allicin, which combats viruses and bacteria, opens nasal passages, and removes toxins from the body.
7. Mint
The analgesic menthol in the leaves of peppermint and spearmint plants relieves nausea and gastric upset. Your loved one can chew the leaves or make tea to eliminate nausea. Dissolving mint candies in the mouth also offers relief.
Home remedies can be quite effective for preventing and alleviating symptoms of a wide range of conditions commonly found among aging adults. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted elderly home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at (334) 593-3988 today