Tulsa Home Health care solutions for all of Northeastern Oklahoma.

Problems with memory are a serious problem among the elderly. One in twenty seniors have some degree of memory loss. The prevalence is even greater for those over 85. One in three people over age 85 are affected by memory problems that hamper their daily life.

There is a lot of truth to the old saying ‘Use it or lose it.’ Healthcare researches are finding evidence that suggests that the onset of Alzheimer’s disease can be delayed simply by keeping ones mind and body active. Unfortunately, many of the life changes that the elderly experience result in less opportunities for mental stimulation. Here are just a few idea for activities to keep the mind alive.

The Internet

While some older people are reluctant to get started with information technology, many of them take to it like a duck to water. The Internet has a lot to offer the elderly. The biggest benefit for some is the ability to communicate effectively and often with family and friends. There are also online resources that help with their everyday lives. These include sites that allow them to do their banking and shopping online. The online news media, and of course the comments sections, are also a draw for seniors.

Adult Learning Classes

Learning something new is a great way to keep the mind active. Classes can range from crafts to creative writing to auto mechanics. Some creative outlets have the added benefit of reinforcing old memories. Encourage a senior to write a memoir and you might end up with an active and healthy senior with a best seller.

Games

Some seniors would rather play games and who can blame them. Games that involve lots of social interaction and also some strategy are the best for keeping the mind active. Some good options are Scrabble, chess or any number of card games.

Volunteer Work

Many elderly people can benefit from helping out in their community. Organizations like Senior Corps and the AARP are good places to start if you are looking for such an opportunity. The local SPCA may also appreciate some help from an older person.

Additional information: http://activemindsforlife.com/brains.html

Photo Credits: 1 2 3

Vitamin D is commonly referred to as the sunshine vitamin. We all need to have an adequate supply of this vitamin in order to grow and regenerate our bones. People over 70 have the greatest need for this nutrient and they also have a lowered ability to synthesize it in the presence of sunlight. This means that the elderly and healthcare professionals who care for them need to ensure an adequate supply of vitamin D through nutrition and supplements.

Recent studies have lead to an increase in the recommended daily intake of vitamin D for seniors. Consuming 700 to 800 IU of vitamin D can reduce the risk of bone fracture in the elderly by 25%.

What are the best sources of vitamin D? The first thing to do is to look at the regular diet. Some common foods and beverages are fortified with vitamin D. One cup of fortified milk typically contains 100 IU. Fortified orange juice also has 100 IU per serving. A serving of breakfast cereal will contain 40 IU. Fish and eggs are the only common foods that are naturally rich in this vitamin. Unless a elderly person is really fond of fish, they are probably not going to get the recommended 700 to 800 IU of vitamin D in their diet. A vitamin supplement can easily make up the difference.

For more information on home health care contact Oxford Healthcare.