People who enjoy frequent sauna sessions know how relaxing it feels. For seniors, sauna bathing is one of the most relaxing activities that also offers a range of health benefits, including protection against dementia. Experts at a renowned Anchorage, AK, home care organization with experience in cognitive therapies suggest 4 ways sauna can protect your senior loved one from dementia.
1. Leads to Better Sleeping Patterns
Sleep disruption and insomnia are two of the leading early signs of dementia, which is why your loved one needs to get plenty of rest. Sauna bathing increases the chances of getting a deeper and more relaxed night of sleep. An evening session of sauna can release endorphins in your loved one’s body, lowering his or her body temperature at night. This process is important because if the body temperature does not fall, your senior loved one may have difficulty sleeping. By getting a good night’s rest, your loved one can reduce his or her risk of dementia.
2. Aids in Socialization
The more socially engaged your senior loved one is, the more stimulated his or her brain will be. Many people think of saunas as private areas, but they can actually be a great social environment. Your senior loved one can enjoy sauna bathing with family members and friends and also form new friendships by connecting with others who share his or her sauna bathing schedule. These sauna-related social gatherings can keep your loved one engaged, stimulated, and challenged, which can help boost his or her cognitive function and preserve his or her memory.
3. Flushes Out Toxins
Most seniors do not actively sweat on a daily basis. Due to the heat of the sauna, your loved one’s body temperature will rise, causing his or her blood vessels to dilate, which increases blood flow and stimulates the sweat glands. When your loved one sweats in sauna, his or her body flushes out the toxins that lead to dementia, such as high levels of mercury and lead.
4. Relieves Stress
Stress and high levels of anxiety damage the areas of the brain that regulate emotional responses, thinking, and memory, which can put your loved one at a higher risk of developing dementia. The heat from the sauna can help relax your senior loved one and release “feel-good” chemicals throughout his body. These natural chemicals can make your loved one feel more at ease and less stressed. As your loved one’s stress levels drop, so do the chances of getting dementia.
To learn more about senior health and lifestyle tips, and for details on high-quality elderly dementia care, Anchorage residents can turn to Home Care Assistance. Not only do we have a dedicated blog section with simple DIY tips and tricks, we also have a team of experienced hourly and live-in caregivers. To schedule an appointment, get in touch with one of our experienced Care Managers today at (907) 770-0907.