The remarkable research of a recent AARP study is in: those that maintain a healthy diet plan are twice as likely to consider their mental acuity to be very good or excellent compared to people who rarely eat well. In particular, a meal plan rich in brain healthy foods such as fish, fruits and vegetables equated to better brain health.
The participants’ responses match the recommendations of AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health, that also adds the need to reduce intake of salt, saturated fats, and excessive alcohol which have been shown to have a negative impact on brain health. Per Sarah Lock, senior vice president for policy and executive director of GCBH, “Many of us have gotten used to the idea of heart-healthy foods, but now we know that those same foods can make a big difference in our brain health, as well.”
Consequently, why aren’t more aging adults following these simple instructions? The issues stated include:
Eating healthy is just too expensive.
It’s difficult to follow a healthy diet.
Stores selling healthy foods are way too far away.
They won’t like the taste.
They don’t believe it makes a difference with their health.
However, a full 90% of respondents stated they’d take steps to eat better if they thought it might decrease their chance of heart problems, diabetes, and cognitive decline.
The daily recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ChooseMyPlate initiative are the following for the elderly:
1 ½ – 2 cups of fruits
2 – 3 cups of vegetables
3 cups of dairy
5 – 6 ounces of protein
5 – 7 ounces of grain
Consuming several different types of these brain healthy foods on a regular basis is key. It can also be helpful to create a strategy in order to help overcome objections to healthy eating, and then to engage the help of a reliable member of the family, buddy, or professional caregiver who can help the senior stick to the routine.
Heaven at Home Senior Care can help make healthy eating a reality for seniors, by getting groceries and making certain the refrigerator and kitchen pantry are well stocked with smart food choices, planning and preparing nutritionally beneficial meals, and more! We can also provide cheerful companionship during mealtimes to alleviate the loneliness that could contribute to unhealthy eating, along with encouragement to make excellent food choices. Contact our Denton, TX senior care experts at 866-381-0500 for details.