A lack of specific vitamins can lead to cognitive decline, but taking the right vitamins can keep the mind healthy and stave off age-related memory loss. Knowing what to take can greatly enhance an aging adult’s memory and overall brain health. The following four vitamins are some of the best for boosting memory.
1. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is necessary for regulating phosphorus and calcium in the brain. A lack of this fat-soluble vitamin may impede the brain’s ability to process, plan, and develop new memories. There’s also a link between low levels of vitamin D and loss of memory due to aging. When vitamin D levels are low, the body also has less ability to combat inflammation in the brain. Inflammation often increases with age, and it can damage brain cells and contribute to the memory loss and cognitive decline often seen in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. A research review of a study done at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and published in Touch Neurology stated that between 70 and 90 percent of aging adults with cognitive issues have low levels of vitamin D.
To boost cognitive health, seniors may need help getting the vitamins and nutrients they need. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Clearwater, Florida, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Vitamin C
Also known as L-ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a well-known antioxidant that can also lessen and get rid of free radicals, which can quickly affect an older adult’s brain cells. With the aid of vitamin C, aging adults can manage brain cell health and enhance their memory as well as other brain functions. Vitamin C is also known to have protective properties against a loss of mental alertness and other memory issues.
3. B Vitamins
B vitamins encompass a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, B6, biotin, B12, and folic acid. These vitamins play an equal role in enhancing memory while providing optimal brain health. It’s because these vitamins work together harmoniously to support and boost brain function that they’re all necessary to receive maximum memory and brain benefits, according to a 2016 study performed at Northumbria University and published in the journal Nutrients. Seniors can use the Institute of Medicine’s vitamin chart to find their vitamin B requirements based on their gender and age, then discuss the dosage with their doctor.
Though daily consumption of vitamins is necessary, not all seniors are able to prepare nutritious meals on their own. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust Clearwater Home Care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
4. Vitamin E
Vitamin E may benefit memory and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline by protecting the cells of the brain from damage. Research also shows a promising connection between memory loss and low blood levels of vitamin E in the aging population, according to a study conducted by researchers at the Indiana University Center for Aging and published in the American Journal of Epidemiology. Researchers tested 4,809 individuals ages 60 and up over a six-year period. Doctors gave two easy memory tests and blood tests, and they collected information on the participants’ backgrounds. They found that those with low vitamin E levels according to their blood test had a poorer memory compared to those with higher levels.
Some older adults need extra support with daily meal preparation and staying active at home. Oftentimes, family members take up the challenge of caring for their aging parents. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Clearwater, FL, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break. To create a tailored care plan for your loved one, call us today at (727) 330-7862.