Physicals, medications, dental checkups – the list of health needs for a senior is seemingly endless. Additionally, while putting the health needs of a senior first, the health of their caregiver can suffer. How will you have the ability to make yourself a bit more aware of the health requirements of a senior, especially one with serious or chronic health issues?
Here are a few tips for keeping on top of the health needs of a senior loved one.
Mental Health
To lower stress levels, and thereby help the mental health of a senior (or anyone else), you might try adaptogen supplements. On top of that, it’s recommended that seniors try new hobbies, read and write, and even do crossword puzzles in order for them to engage in the world that surrounds them and to stimulate their brains. Activities of this nature can stave off declining mental health.
Sleep
When it comes to seniors being able to sleep easy at night, it’s often difficult due to insomnia and frequent waking. In the evenings, turn the lights down in an effort to encourage drowsiness and ensure that the room they sleep in is quiet, comfortable, and cool.
Nutrition
Nutrition is especially important for seniors due to the fact that our digestive system tends to slow as we age. This means that whole grains, veggies, and fruits that are high in fiber are critical. Due to the fact that seniors can be prone to dehydration, they need to drink a lot of water too in order to remain sharp and energized.
Prevention
For seniors, preventive tips include things like health screenings for heart problems, colon cancer, cholesterol levels, and other issues, and these qualify for coverage through Medicare. Additionally, seniors should get vaccinations each year for pneumonia and the flu.
Management of Medications
Review and ask about medications your senior takes with their doctor regularly. Think about things like any possible medication interactions and if there are any sort of new symptoms, such as loss of appetite, drowsiness, allergic reactions, or more, that the person might show once they start or change medications.
Vision
Aging people who use glasses need to have their eyes checked on a yearly basis for any prescription changes and to be screened for any health issues. Making sure they have the proper prescription for their glasses can reduce their risk of falling.
Socializing
The time that’s spent with grandchildren and other family members can assist aging people with feeling connected, especially those who suffer from issues with mobility. Visits of this nature can also do a lot for their mood, and that’s the best medicine regardless of someone’s age.
Physical Activity
Exercise does more than simply alleviating symptoms of depression. It also works to improve things like memory and energy levels. Any exercise program should be physician-approved, but short strolls or long walks (if they’re able) can help with keeping people healthier for longer.
When they have their health under control, people will be able to stay active and do more. This is critical for their overall health. Healthy, happy seniors will still have quite a few challenges regarding health, but they’ll also be able to contribute more to it and this can give the people who care for them a bit less to be worried about.
People who’ve had a lot of healthy habits throughout their lives have a tendency to be healthy seniors. However, it’s never too late to start with healthy habits. Having good habits when it comes to health can make quite a difference even to seniors who might be prone to illnesses or haven’t prioritized their health in the past.