Tips for seniors downsizing before moving to assisted Living
December 2, 2022
Even though there’s no certain way to prevent cognitive decline, it’s heartening to know that there are certain foods we can take to, at least, slow it down. And it’s never too late to start making these positive dietary changes.
You’ll appreciate this fact more if you visit assisted living communities specializing in treating seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. These brain power-enhancing superfoods are backed by plenty of studies that help to keep such conditions at bay as we age.
That said, there’s no better time than now to start consuming more of these superfoods if you want to keep your mind in tip-top shape.
Berries are not only delightfully delicious, but they’re also packed full of the right antioxidants to maintain better brain health.
Blueberries, in particular, have actually been found by studies to be able to directly aid in boosting memory. They contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that give these fruits their distinctive blue color. Here’s a list of their potent benefits:
They’re not limited to blueberries, though. Blackberries also contain a decent amount of anthocyanins, as do cherries.
Want to know the clue blueberries give to ensure you get the maximum amount of anthocyanins when you eat them? Usually, it’s when they begin to ripen. However, it’s often fine as long as you eat them while they’re ripe.
Almost all leafy greens are regarded as superfoods in and of themselves. Who doesn’t know nutritional powerhouses like kale, spinach, and broccoli? Minimal servings of these greens daily can help you meet your daily recommended intake of essential nutrients.
How do they specifically aid in keeping your mental faculties fit? These should give you the answer:
Nuts of all types, shapes, and sizes have always been tied to better brains for good reason. People who eat nuts regularly tend to enjoy sharper memories. So what are the exact components of almonds, walnuts, pecans, and Brazil nuts that are responsible for this mind-enhancing effect?
There are three specific nutrients to look at: the antioxidants, good fats, and vitamin E.
Alzheimer’s and dementia may be tough nuts (pun very much intended) to crack, but they’re not unbeatable. Sometimes, the best weapons can be found from what nature already has to offer.
The omega-3 found in fatty fish very much deserves a special mention because it can actually address Alzheimer’s disease directly. How? By reducing the amount of beta-amyloid found in the blood. This protein brings about Alzheimer’s by forming the signature clumps found in people who have the said condition.
Other than that, here are some of the other reasons why senior care facilities should consider adding more omega-3-rich foods in their menus:
Always beware of contaminants found in certain fish, though. Be mindful of the ones that contain high mercury concentrations. Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are good choices to start if you’re still undecided.
You’ll more than likely want to start reaching for a cup or two of your favorite brew once you know their brain-boosting potential:
Did you notice one common denominator in almost all the foods included here? They’re all good for the heart as well. And that really is one of the keys to optimal brain health: an excellent circulatory system.
Now that you know the best foods to keep your brain’s optimal performance, will you start incorporating more of them in your diet?
That said, any senior living facility should certainly consider incorporating more of them in their residents’ meal plans. At Lantern, we are proud to say that every meal plan comes with servings of berries, coffee, and tea.
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