The foods your senior loved one consumes can have a significant impact on his or her health, so it’s important to focus on eating wholesome, nutritious foods that offer a variety of health benefits. Here are a few foods known to boost immune system health in older adults.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics that can enhance your loved one’s digestion and provide a boost to his or her immune system. Yogurt is also loaded with vitamin D, which can ward off the flu and colds. Make sure to read the labels and stay away from yogurt loaded with sugar and artificial sweeteners.
A weak immune system can put an older adult at risk for several health issues. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of homecare services. Clearwater families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.
Chicken Soup
The broth in chicken soup can keep your loved one hydrated. It can also prevent the shift of neutrophils, which are white blood cells that defend against infection. Some vegetables commonly used in chicken soup, such as celery and onions, also provide vitamin C, fiber, and anti-inflammatory components capable of combating respiratory congestion.
Older adults who need help preparing nutritious meals should consider professional in-home care. Senior home care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Sardines
Sardines are packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids can reduce swelling and pain throughout the body, provide benefits for the heart, and enhance how the immune cells work. If your loved one has ailments ranging from arthritis to heart problems, sardines could be a beneficial dietary addition.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is rich in antioxidant vitamins, and it also contains choline, a nutrient that can keep cells functioning correctly. Cauliflower is also full of glutathione, an antioxidant that can ward off infection and keep the immune system healthy.
Preparing nutritious meals for a loved one can be a challenging task, especially if you have other important tasks to tend to. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Clearwater, respite care is available when you need time away from your important caregiving duties. At Home Care Assistance, our respite caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help your loved one manage everyday tasks in the comfort of home while you have the chance to take a much-needed break. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at (727) 330-7862.