Even though the cognitive decline is a natural part of the aging process, seniors can do quite a bit to preserve their brain health as they grow older. Taking high-quality supplements gives the brain the fuel it needs to create new cells and prevent permanent damage. Here is a look at five great supplements for older adults who want to boost their mental acuity and memory skills.
- Zinc
According to a study carried out at Oregon State University, over 40 percent of the senior population has a zinc deficiency. When an individual doesn’t consume enough zinc, the neurotransmitters in the brain won’t be able to communicate with one another, which can impact working memory. As a general rule, seniors need to consume at least 40 mg of zinc per day. In addition to taking supplements, older adults should also eat plenty of nuts, dairy, cooked shellfish, and other foods that are high in zinc.
Taking brain-boosting supplements is just one of the many ways older adults can enhance their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly care. Fair Oaks, CA, 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.
- Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
Consuming an adequate amount of vitamin B1 boosts brain health. Thiamine deficiencies have been linked to Korsakoff syndrome, Alzheimer’s disease, and a variety of other cognitive health disorders. A recent study conducted at the University of Maryland Medical Center found that thiamine supplements can minimize the symptoms of dementia as well. Most high-quality multivitamins are full of thiamine, but some companies sell vitamin B complex supplements on their own.
- Calcium
Many neurologists believe calcium is one of the most important minerals for cognitive function. Calcium regulates cell transmissions, carries nerve signals, and stimulates the production of healthy brain cells. However, calcium deficiencies are very common among the elderly, which is why doctors often tell seniors to take calcium supplements. When taking a calcium supplement, seniors need to eat plenty of food so the body can efficiently break down the mineral.
Eating nutritious meals and taking supplements are some of the many healthy lifestyle choices older adults should consider. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care. Fair Oaks Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E has antioxidants that seek out and destroy free radicals in the brain. If free radicals aren’t destroyed, they can damage brain cells and increase the risk of dementia. A relatively healthy senior who doesn’t have any cognitive health issues should take around 15 mg of vitamin E per day.
- Magnesium
An inadequate magnesium intake can make it difficult for the body to break down essential vitamins and minerals. Magnesium turns many different nutrients into their active forms inside the digestive tract. Several recent studies have revealed magnesium supplements can enhance both long-term and working memory.
Boosting an aging parent’s brain health can be a fairly difficult task, especially when you have other important duties to tend to. If you are the primary caregiver for a senior loved one in Fair Oaks, 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.