Our immune system’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses naturally declines with age, which is why seniors may need added support to keep themselves healthy. The good news is that eating a healthy diet is one of the best strategies to support immune function, and having elder care by their side can help.
Essential Elements for a Healthy Immune System
An immune-boosting, nutrient-dense diet that is well-balanced can help the body fend off diseases. The following essential nutrients are a few options that can increase seniors immune systems:
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is well known for strengthening the immune system as it boosts white blood cells, making them strong enough to fight off infections. Citrus foods (grapefruits, oranges), strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli are rich sources of vitamin C.
- Vitamin D: An essential component of immune defense, vitamin D helps control the immune system and increases the ability of white blood cells to combat pathogens. Seniors are more vulnerable to vitamin D insufficiency for various reasons. However, sunlight, fortified dairy products, and fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) are good sources of this important vitamin. Supplements have their advantages as well, but before beginning any new supplement regimen, seniors should speak with their doctor.
- Zinc: Studies have shown that zinc can shorten and reduce the intensity of common colds. Zinc is also necessary for immune system maintenance. Meat, seafood, legumes (beans, lentils), nuts, and seeds are foods high in zinc.
- Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for preserving the integrity of mucosal cells and skin, which help fight infections as well as promoting the synthesis of white blood cells. Kale, sweet potatoes, spinach, and carrots are good sources of vitamin A.
Useful Advice for Including Immune-Boosting Supplements
For seniors already dealing with changes each day, figuring out how to ensure they get enough of the supplements above in their diets can be challenging. First and foremost, as mentioned, they need to speak with their medical team before making changes. Once they get approval, they can work with elder care to find recipes that fit the bill. Additionally, elder care may be able to teach them new ways to cook and prepare certain foods, making their diet more exciting and diverse.
For instance, smoothies are a great way to add some of the vitamins noted above, along with yogurt, which adds probiotics. Also, seniors should strive to have at least one fruit and vegetable at each meal. Choosing whole grains, lean proteins, and snacking wisely are also tips seniors should incorporate.
Additional Ways to Boost Immunity
Beyond improving their diet, seniors can also increase their immunity by ensuring they get consistent exercise and sufficient sleep. For the former, elder care can encourage them to attend a group exercise class that’s targeted for their age and abilities. If seniors aren’t able to find one or feel subconscious about attending, elder care can help them find ways to workout at home, such as walking around the block or following a workout video they find online.
It’s also important to note that prolonged stress might impact immunity. Engaging in stress-relieving activities like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or enjoyable hobbies can be quite helpful for seniors.
One of the most effective ways to improve overall well-being, particularly as the years pass by, is to boost a senior’s immune system through nutrition. With the help of elder care, seniors can strengthen their immune systems and live better by incorporating the tips offered above.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/seniors-boost-immunity
https://www.healthline.com/health/flu/boost-immune-system-over-65
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-boost-your-immune-system
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Belmont, MA, please contact the caring staff at PlatinumCare + today. Call (617) 237-0867.
PlatinumCare + was born out of the desire and passion to provide the very best home health care possible in Brookline, Dover, Newton, Needham, Watertown, Weston, Cambridge, Lincoln, Sudbury, Belmont, Boston MA, and surrounding areas.
All with decades of experience, Tim in IT Operations, Support, and Management, Brenda in Client Relations, Healthcare Services & Sales Management, and Anne in Healthcare as a Nurse Practitioner combined their skills to form what is now PlatinumCare +.
As immigrants to the US, all came from backgrounds where Healthcare for aging parents was a responsibility of the immediate family and the entire community. Aging, sick, or terminal community members were cared for physically, emotionally, and financially by family, friends, including strangers! This community approach, Healthcare with a difference, delivered with the utmost love, care, sacrifice, and passion, forms the basis of how PlatinumCare + grounds itself.
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