While papaya may not appear on your senior loved one’s grocery list with the frequency of apples or bananas, there’s reason to seek out this pulpy Central American fruit. Here are some key ways papayas can boost senior health.
1. Enhances Heart Health
Papayas are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which prevent cholesterol from oxidizing. The oxidation process is what allows plaque to build up on the artery walls, increasing the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiac events.
If your loved one needs help shopping for groceries and preparing healthy meals, a home caregiver can be a fantastic resource. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Tucson, AZ, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
2. Protects against Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Papayas contain zeaxanthin, an antioxidant that protects the eyes from age-related macular degeneration. This condition, which affects those older than age 65, can cause blurriness, distorted vision, and total vision loss.
3. Boosts Immunity
Older adults can be more susceptible to infection and illness. Because papayas contain 200 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, they’re a great way to make up for the natural age-related decline of the immune system.
Increasing their vitamin intake is just one of the many ways aging adults can boost their health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
4. Lowers the Risk of Certain Cancers
According to a study conducted by the University of Florida, papaya leaf extract can slow the growth of tumors in the breast, pancreas, and other areas of the body. In addition, the fruit is loaded with antioxidants that protect against the development of free radicals (mutated cells that can lead to cancerous growth). The fiber in papaya protects against colon cancer by binding to cancer-causing agents and blocking them from colon cells.
5. Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
If your loved one has a disease that’s exacerbated by inflammation, such as arthritis or asthma, the anti-inflammatory nutrients found in papaya can alleviate symptoms and flare-ups.
It can be challenging for seniors to prepare healthy meals, but a professional caregiver can help your loved one maintain a nutritious diet. In Tucson, elder care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Home Care Assistance will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call us today at (520) 276-6555 to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.