Due to its many health benefits, coconut oil is gaining popularity among many age groups, including seniors. Coconut oil can boost skin and heart health and enhance quality of life for older adults with Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some ways seniors with Alzheimer’s can benefit from using coconut oil.
Boosts Brain Function
Eating superfoods can provide seniors with proper nutrition that can preserve their memory and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Coconut oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. The fatty acids from coconut oil can influence the fluid levels of brain cell membranes, signal transmissions, activities of key enzymes, and neurotransmitter binding and synthesis.
Reduces Stress
Chronic stress can speed up cognitive decline. Stress causes deterioration of a senior’s memory and learning abilities. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, chronic stress could cause the condition to progress quickly. However, coconut oil is very healing and can relieve stress. The antioxidant properties found in coconut oil can provide seniors with relief and eliminate mental fatigue.
Providing care for an aging adult with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another cognitive condition can be overwhelming at times. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality home care, Assisting Hands Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.
Decreases the Risk of Diabetes
Obesity is one of the main causes of diabetes among seniors. Diabetes has a negative impact on the elderly, especially those living with Alzheimer’s. When diabetes isn’t controlled, too much sugar may remain in the blood. Over time, the excessive sugar levels could damage the organs, including the brain. However, coconut oil can increase the number of calories your loved one burns, which can lower the risk of obesity, lead to significant weight loss, and prevent diabetes and other health issues.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior home care. Richmond families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Increases Energy Levels
The fatty acids found in coconut oil are metabolized into ketones and used as a quick source of energy. The metabolism process can have therapeutic effects on various cognitive health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease. A boost in energy can help seniors with Alzheimer’s remain socially and physically active. Engaging in social and physical activities can enhance mood and prevent excessive weight gain, which could have a positive impact on the brain.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Coconut oil can decrease cholesterol levels and reduce beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. When beta-amyloid plaques accumulate between the nerve cells in the brain, they cause cognitive decline. Using coconut oil can decrease the production of these plaques, which slows the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to handle without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Richmond Assisting Hands Home Care provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our caregivers help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at (804) 600-0002 today.
