An important part of senior care is proper nutrition. As we age, the body starts losing its ability to absorb vital nutrients. On top of that, many seniors don’t get the appropriate nutrition in their diets to begin with. Vitamins really are a viable way to fix this condition. To ensure that a senior is doing all he or she can to stay healthy, a top quality home care company, such as Retire At Home which offers home care services in Edmonton, can supply a caregiver to oversee daily nutrition for a senior.
Best Vitamins for Seniors
There are some important and basic vitamins that seniors need. These will combat common health problems, improve aging, and help prevent loss of memory. Either a multi-vitamin or separate vitamins can be bought. They are:
* Vitamin D
* B vitamins
* Vitamin K
Vitamin D helps the body better absorb Calcium. Deficiencies in Calcium in the bones is exactly what leads to fractures and common breaks from falls. B vitamins are anti-oxidants, which help fight aging. They play a vital role in brain function also, and can help improve memory and alertness. Vitamin K is important mainly because it could actually help prevent osteoporosis. A study also discovered that individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease had a deficiency of this vitamin.
Are Vitamins Safe for Seniors?
Protect yourself from adverse drug reactions as well as other dangers with the following three steps:
* Talk to your doctor
* Take exactly what you need
* Read labels
Be careful when taking both prescription medications and vitamins and supplements together because sometimes interactions can lead to uncomfortable side effects. Make sure to let your physician know about any vitamins and supplements you’re taking. It can be beneficial to bring an updated list along with you to any appointment. The pharmacist can also be of assistance.
Avoid taking high doses of any vitamin. Some manufacturers will load their supplements with extremely high doses of minerals and vitamins. Along with this being unnecessary, it can be dangerous.
Read the labels on your supplements. Some will have directions, like to take it with food or with water. Always follow these. Also watch out for “energy boosting” supplements, which may contain caffeine.
Multi vitamins can be beneficial, because they contain a variety of needed vitamins and minerals. If you choose to take a multi vitamin, select one that’s specifically for seniors. This will likely ensure that you get the nutrients you need.
Getting the Help You Need
Home care is a vital facet of independence. If you’re having difficulty providing some of your basic needs, there are options. A reputable home healthcare provider can really help. These professionals can certainly help manage some of your home responsibilities, including:
* Light house cleaning (changing bed linens, laundry, vacuuming, etc.)
* Meal preparation and cooking
* Administration of medications
* Basic health monitoring (blood pressure, temperature, respiration rate, etc.)
A home healthcare provider can also advise families on issues that sometimes arise with elderly family members, such as household tasks and doctor appointments. They are able to also become a major support and friend to the seniors they are working for.