Keeping an active and healthy lifestyle becomes more and more important with age. Additionally, nutrition is essential for maintaining general health, and omega-3 fatty acids are one way to reach nutritional goals. These important fats—omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, in particular—offer a host of health advantages that can greatly improve the quality of life for seniors. With help from their in-home care aide and loved ones, seniors get what they need.
Understanding Omega Fatty Acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids come from food since they are polyunsaturated fats that the body is unable to create on its own. Walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, salmon, and some oils (including flaxseed and fish oil) are excellent providers of these important nutrients. Seniors with in-home care aides by their side can effectively choose the right foods to fulfill their needs. The in-home care team can also teach them how to prep and cook these foods if they’re unfamiliar with them.
Advantages of Omega Fatty Acids
Once seniors understand what foods to choose to increase their supply of omega fatty acids, they can also become familiar with why these fatty acids are essential to their routine. Some of the advantages are detailed further below.
Mental Wellness: The beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids on cognitive function are among its most well-known advantages. Maintaining mental acuity in older adults is essential for their independence and well-being. DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an essential component of brain cell membranes, is an omega-3 fatty acid that supports cognitive function and may lower the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative illnesses like Alzheimer’s.
Heart Conditions: Seniors are more likely to experience cardiovascular problems as they get older. For their potential to lower blood pressure, lipids, and the risk of irregular heart rhythms, omega-3 fatty acids have been the subject of much research into their cardiovascular benefits. Including omega-3 fatty acids in the diet can help seniors maintain a robust and resilient cardiovascular system as well as improve overall heart health.
Combined Health: Seniors frequently struggle with joint-related issues like inflammation and arthritis. The anti-inflammatory qualities of omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce stiffness and soreness in the joints. Frequent omega-3 dietary intake may also help to preserve joint suppleness and lessen the requirement for certain drugs.
Support for Vision: Seniors need to maintain healthy vision, and omega-3 fatty acids help to maintain eye health. Specifically, DHA is an important structural element of the retina. Consuming omega-3 fatty acids in the diet may help ward off vision-related problems such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Boost the Immune System: Maintaining general health and preventing disease require a strong immune system. Research has demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids can boost immunological function, which can aid older adults in fending off infections and speeding up their recuperation from medical emergencies. The in-home care team can also help seniors with their immune systems by encouraging healthy hygiene habits.
Seniors who want to protect their health and well-being should take proactive measures by doing all they can, including adding omega-3 fatty acids to their diet. As always, seniors should speak with medical specialists before making big dietary changes, but omega fatty acids are a formidable friend on the path to good aging thanks to their many benefits. With in-home care and loved ones by their side, seniors can thrive.
Sources: https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/omega-3-fatty-acids-fact-sheet
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/17-health-benefits-of-omega-3
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/17290-omega-3-fatty-acids
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services Brownsville TN please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (731) 300-2300
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Jackson, Humboldt, Medina, Milan, Trenton, Brownsville, Madison County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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