Top Five Foods for Healthy Cognitive Function
Elderly Care Upper Darby PA
We’ve all heard the term “brain food” in reference to something informative like a book, documentary, or informational radio program. Soaking up new knowledge from sources like these is certainly important for elderly adults, but did you know that another way elderly adults can keep their brain healthy is by eating brain-healthy foods? Many foods contain nutrients that can help elderly adults to have better memory, prevent cognitive decline, and slow the progression of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. When elderly adults utilize figurative “brain foods,” or mentally stimulating activities, as well as literal “brain foods,” they will be taking the steps to keep their brains sharp, active, and as healthy as can be. Here are just a few of these “brain foods” that caregivers should include in their loved ones’ healthy diets.
1. Salmon
Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed for healthy brain function. In addition to being great for the brain, salmon is a lean source of protein making it a great food to add to an elderly adult’s healthy diet. A great idea for caregivers is to strive to serve a fatty fish such as salmon up to 4 times per week.
2. Avocado
Avocado is another excellent source of healthy fat, making it a great “brain food.” In addition to “good fat,” avocados are a great source of folate which has been shown to have benefits for those who suffer from mild cognitive impairment, or MCI. Sliced avocados go great on sandwiches, salads, and tacos and they can even be made into pasta sauces or brownies!
3. Nuts
Nuts have healthy fats as well as vitamin E, a nutrient that is essential for a healthy brain. Nuts are also a great source of protein and fiber, which are very important nutrients for elderly adults to get each and every day. Serve shelled nuts as a quick and easy (and portable) snack or add them to sauces, baked goods, and breakfasts such as yogurt or oatmeal.
4. Beans
Beans and legumes are another excellent source of folate, which may aid elderly adults who have mild cognitive impairment. They also help to regulate blood sugar which is especially important for diabetics. Beans are delicious in salads, tacos, and in many soups and stews.
5. Blueberries
Some research has shown that eating blueberries regularly can have positive results for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia as they may help protect the brain and strengthen cognitive function. Since blueberries are so easy to eat and tasty, they are easy to incorporate into your elderly loved one’s diet. Elderly adults may enjoy them as a snack or as an addition to their healthy breakfast.
If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home Elderly Care in Upper Darby PA, please contact the caring staff at True Direct Home Health Care today.
Doc, as he is called by everyone - staff, patients and clients - first experienced home health care and hospice care while as a colleg student at King's College as he cared for his mother every day while she first battled COPD and then lung cancer. It was during this time that he came to understand that caring for a patient was more than just clinical expertise.
"Admittedly, my strongest attribute is my communication skills and the simple fact that I love to help people. Even the smallest thing you can do for someone really can mean so much to them long term. In fact, it could change them forever. That's what providing quality personal home health care should be all about."
In his spare time, he cooks for homeless shelters and children's music and arts events. He also is highly involved in his local youth sports soccer academy as a coach and Board member.
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