Maintaining kidney health becomes especially crucial for people over the age of 60. Without properly functioning kidneys, waste won’t be removed from the blood and water fluid levels won’t be properly regulated. However, healthy eating can prevent kidney disease and other serious complications. Here are some foods you may want to add to your elderly loved one’s diet.
1. Red Bell Peppers
These tasty vegetables provide a number of health benefits, including vitamin C for immune support, fiber for digestive health, and vitamin A to maintain healthy skin, bones, and tissue. They also contain antioxidants that can protect against kidney cancer. Bell peppers are low in potassium, which makes them a safe choice for seniors who have hyperkalemia due to impaired kidney function.
Seniors with mobility limitations or health conditions may find it challenging to prepare nutritious meals on their own. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Tucson seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
2. Cranberries
These brightly colored berries have antibacterial properties that can protect against urinary tract infections, which can lead to kidney damage. Cranberries can promote gastrointestinal health by protecting the stomach lining from ulcer-causing bacteria, and they’re also rich in antioxidants that can decrease the risk of kidney disease and cancer.
3. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cabbage and cauliflower are low in potassium and full of nutrients that promote kidney health. These vegetables are high in phytochemicals, which can destroy the free radicals responsible for cellular damage to the kidneys, and these same chemicals also lower the risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions that can negatively impact kidney health.
An experienced, highly trained professional caregiver may be able to identify symptoms of poor kidney function earlier than you or your loved one can. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide elder care, Home Care Assistance has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering proprietary programs like our holistic Balanced Care Method and around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years.
4. Red Grapes
Flavonoids gve these grapes their beautiful color. A flavonoid called resveratrol stimulates the body’s production of nitric oxide, which increases blood flow by relaxing blood vessels. This can lower your loved one’s blood pressure and combat the effects of atherosclerosis, which can lead to kidney disease in older adults. Flavonoids can also reduce your loved one’s risk of blood clots, alleviate inflammation, and protect against certain types of cancer.
5. Raspberries
Raspberries are another excellent source of flavonoids and antioxidants that can prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals. They also contain manganese, which aids in the regulation of blood sugar. This can reduce your loved one’s risk of diabetes, which is a significant factor in the development of kidney disease.
Kidney disease is one of many conditions seniors need to be aware of so they can make lifestyle choices that promote optimal health. 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 homecare services. Tucson families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner in caregiving for your aging loved one. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at (520) 276-6555 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.