According to the World Health Organization, there are at least 30 essential vitamins and minerals the human body can’t produce on its own. While most people get these nutrients from the foods they eat, some older adults have a difficult time processing certain vitamins and minerals. Here’s a quick look at eight essential nutrients all seniors need to consume every day.
1. Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps the body create collagen, elastin, and other key proteins. It also boosts the immune system, which means fewer illnesses during cold and flu season. A relatively healthy senior should aim for about 90 mg of vitamin C a day.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. 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 A
Seniors often become deficient in vitamin A because they tend to eat the same foods over and over. A vitamin A deficiency can result in brittle teeth, thinning hair, skin rashes, and macular degeneration. Beets, milk, liver, spinach, and carrots are all packed with vitamin A. You can also find this nutrient in most multivitamins designed for seniors.
3. Calcium
Osteoporosis, arthritis, and other health issues are extremely common among the elderly. One of the best ways to combat these conditions is to consume plenty of calcium. In addition to being in many dairy products, calcium can also be found in sardines, broccoli, almonds, and beans.
4. Vitamin D
No matter how much calcium your loved one is consuming, he or she won’t be able to process it without plenty of vitamin D in his or her system. According to the National Academy of Medicine, nearly 35 percent of adults over the age of 65 are deficient in vitamin D. Getting around 25 minutes of direct sunlight every day allows the body to produce an ample supply of this vitamin.
5. Magnesium
To keep the heart and veins healthy, seniors need at least 350 mg of magnesium every day. Some smaller studies have shown that a magnesium-rich diet may also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Luckily, magnesium can be found in many healthy food products, including nuts and leafy green vegetables.
Magnesium deficiency can lead to an array of medical issues, and caring for a loved one with a serious health condition can be difficult. Seniors living with serious health conditions often need extensive assistance in and outside the home. Home Care Assistance is a trusted provider of Mississauga live-in care. Our caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with bathing, grooming, light housekeeping, and various other daily tasks, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care.
6. Potassium
As seniors grow older, it becomes difficult for their kidneys to extract, process, and use potassium. Over time, this could lead to nerve damage, blood sugar spikes, high blood pressure, and elevated sodium levels. Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables is the best way to increase potassium intake.
7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A recent study found omega-3 fatty acids can reduce a senior’s risk of dementia, high blood pressure, depression, and strokes. This amazing nutrient is vital to health at every age, and the best source is fatty fish. Seniors who don’t enjoy fish can also take omega-3 fatty acid supplements that mask the fishy flavour with natural herbs.
8. Vitamin E
Healthy teens and young adults can usually fight off respiratory infections, but these illnesses are very dangerous for seniors. Vitamin E is another nutrient that boosts the immune system and triggers the body’s healing response. Healthy fats like avocado oil and peanut butter usually have plenty of vitamin E.
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to numerous health conditions, but opting for in-home care can help older adults prevent these issues. When considering elder care, Mississauga, ON, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner in caregiving for your aging loved one. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 905-337-1200 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.