Here at Nova Home Health Care, we understand the value of a great quality of life for everyone, no matter their age or situation. As Fairfax’s leading provider of home healthcare aides, Nova’s mission is and has always been to give family caregivers back their freedom, give elderly folks back their independence, and improve the quality of life for families all over our area. There are so many difficult things to navigate when you realize that a loved one in your family requires more care than what you can give them. After all, you’re already trying to balance your job, your obligations, your family, and everything else that’s on your plate. When we assign a kind, compassionate, and trustworthy individual to come into your home and assist your elderly or infirm loved one with daily tasks, you’ll be able to get back to your life, while your family enjoys some much-needed peace. If you’re ready to start getting the help that you’ve been needing, contact us at Nova Home Health Care today!
Brain Facts
As we all get older, our bodies start to slow down, our senses begin to show their age in the need for glasses and hearing aids, and our minds can certainly follow suit. Studies have shown that our minds can start declining as early as when we’re in our 20s. That means that, even as “youngsters,” our brains are slowing down. Our memory starts to decline, our critical thinking skills begin to wane, and our general brain function plainly shows our age.
Those of us who are used to working with senior citizens can attest to the fact that mental faculties are usually especially weakened when an individual is older. It’s definitely true that many older folks have been able to stay extremely cognisant and mentally aware, even into their 90s, and we can certainly attribute some of this to “good genes.” But what if there was something that we could all do to help our brains stay young? What if we knew of proven ways to not only increase brain function but also improve the quality of that functionality. In today’s two-part blog, we’re going to discuss some of the best and most proven ways to keep your mental abilities going strong, even into old age.
Diet is Crucial
The foods we put into our bodies are instrumental in how our brains function and develop. We’ve all heard certain foods referred to as “brain foods,” and this term is not just a fun anecdote. There are certain foods that have been shown to increase and improve memory, brain function, and mental longevity. While it’s best to eat these nutritious foods from an early age, it’s never too late to start feeding your brain the right things. Let’s take a look at some of these superfoods.
Antioxidants
Eating foods that are high in antioxidants can help with focus, memory, and problem-solving. These foods include nuts, dark chocolate, berries, artichokes, kale, cabbage, beans, beets, and spinach.
Fish
Consuming fish a few times per week can help give you a healthy mind. Avoiding fish that are high in mercury is always advised; stick with fish such as salmon or mackerel.
Avocado
The monounsaturated fats contained in avocados increase blood flow to the brain and other organs.
Whole Grains
Having at least two servings of whole grains per day can significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke.
Olive Oil
This oil has been shown to break up clots and improve overall blood flow.
Onions
Onions contain certain enzymes that have been proven to block damage to the blood-brain barrier.
Fruits and Veggies
Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables every day can significantly improve brain function, as well as many other physical benefits.
Breakfast
Eating breakfast has been shown to help maintain healthy brain function. It’s not called the most important meal of the day for no reason.
Supplements
In addition to all of the nutrient-dense foods that you plan on eating, make sure that you also add in your omega-3s, green tea, Vitamins B, E, C, grape seed extract, and lecithin to help improve your brain’s overall function.
Thanks for sticking with us as we dive into the best foods to eat for greater brain function. Join us next time for part two of our blog series in which we’ll discuss the best activities to maintain a healthy mind. In the meantime, check out our website to learn about our services, read our blog, and to contact us for a home health aide in your area.
Reach out to Nova
Nova Home Health Care is ready to step in and help you and your family with the care of your elderly or ill loved one. No matter the level of their condition, we’ll stop at nothing to see if we can help. Contact Nova for more information!
