Older adults are often unable to find the energy they need to be actively involved in the things they enjoy, like taking walks, playing with their grandchildren, and gardening. However, incorporating a few changes in your aging loved one’s daily habits may help him or her find more energy to participate more fully in life. Check out these five simple ways your senior loved one can boost his or her energy levels.
1. Enjoy a Healthy Breakfast
All of the body’s systems slow down during the night and regenerate after consuming the first meal of the day. Many people don’t feel hungry in the morning, but it’s important to eat something healthy, even if it’s small, to jump-start the body’s metabolism.
Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Anchorage, AK, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
2. Eat Plenty of Protein
Unlike refined sugar, which provides a quick boost of energy quickly followed by a sudden drop, protein provides a slow release of energy that’s steadily used over the course of a few hours. It’s readily supplied by meats, dairy products, and eggs, and complete sources of protein can be created by combining rice and beans or nuts and grains.
3. Add Magnesium to the Diet
Magnesium is an important element that works by converting carbohydrates into energy the body can use. It’s found in whole grains and nuts, including almonds, Brazil nuts, and walnuts.
4. Exercise
Even though it may seem like exercise would make your loved one more tired, taking a walk can increase energy levels. Studies have shown that people who walked briskly for 10 minutes enjoyed an increase in mood and energy that lasted for about two hours.
For seniors with mobility limitations or health conditions that make it difficult to exercise safely on their own, a professional caregiver can be a wonderful asset. 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 elderly home care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
5. Take a Nap
Taking a nap during the day for 10 minutes to an hour can reinvigorate an older adult. Sleeping after around 4:00 p.m. isn’t recommended because it can contribute to nightly insomnia.
These strategies can boost your senior loved one’s energy levels, which can definitely enhance his or her overall wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Anchorage, AK, 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. If your loved one needs professional care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (907) 770-0907 today.