Dementia is one of the many possible conditions our seniors might face in their advanced years. It makes them vulnerable and unsafe to live on their own and travel alone. However, we can still do something about this problem to help our older adults live their lives to the fullest.

Flex Health Care, a provider of Dementia and Alzheimer‘s services in New York, compiles a list you need to keep track of while caring for your loved one with dementia. There are many factors that help in slowing down the progression of this condition. They are:

• Avoiding head injury

  Head injuries can cause dementia. It can cause changes in a person’s cognitive ability and thinking and learning skills. This could result in a higher chance of developing the condition.

  Urge your older adult to protect his or her head. They can wear helmets if they want to engage in physical activities. Wearing seatbelts also prevent head injury. Lastly, let them avoid situations that involve repeated head injury.

• Exercise

  To have a healthier brain, seniors should be physically active. They do not have to engage in extreme exercises. Going out for walks will do. Encourage them to move around. Give them some tasks to do like helping you out in the garden or baking.

  Aside from their body, their brains should also be active. Let them do puzzles and play board games. It makes their mind active.

• Diet

  Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains help in slowing dementia down. It protects the brain from damages brought by free radicals for these foods contain antioxidants. Aside from the three foods we have mentioned, the following also help in the slow progression of the condition:
  1. Olive oil
  2. Turmeric
  3. Omega-3 fatty acid

  Mediterranean diet can also help. It is characterized by high intake of olive oil, fruits and vegetables, and a moderate intake of protein.

• Socializing

  People who are prone to isolation have a higher risk of developing dementia. If an older adult keeps a good social network, he or she promotes new connections between their brain cells.

  Aside from that, when seniors are isolated, they move around less. Thus, they do not let their brain function that much. And like our muscles, the lesser we use our brain, the greater we put ourselves at risk of developing dementia.

  As a provider of Non-Medical Home Care in Poughkeepsie, New York, we keep our patients active by socializing with them more. Giving in-home care services in New York may not be an easy task but we make it work by improving our relationship with our patients. Thus, we can not only provide them the companionship they need but also their needed assistance in daily living.

Saying “we prevent dementia,” is like giving our patients false hope. As of now, there is still no cure for this condition. However, we can do something to slow its progression down.

What are your own ways of helping your parent who has dementia? Share your experience in the comment section and you might just help someone else who is going through similar challenges.