Inflammation is one of the factors that can cause seniors to struggle with chronic health problems. As seniors get older chronic inflammation can make existing health conditions worse.
It can also contribute to joint pain, mobility problems, and other chronic issues. Studies are being done about the impact of inflammation on senior health, but there’s no denying that inflammation is a problem for seniors.
Inflammation is caused by triggers that cause the body to react in ways that end up hurting itself. There are many different things that can trigger inflammation.
If your senior parent is struggling with a chronic health problem and living at home is getting harder for them home care can help. With home care seniors who have bouts of inflammation won’t have to worry about doing things like housework or cooking, they will have a care provider to help them. Some things that seniors and their families should know about inflammation are:
What Is Inflammation?
Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, infection, or irritation. It involves a complex network of immune cells, chemicals, and proteins that work together to eliminate pathogens, repair damaged tissue, and restore normal function.
Acute inflammation is typically short-lived and beneficial, but when inflammation becomes chronic, it can contribute to various age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Contributing Factors Make Inflammation Worse
Several factors that are common among seniors can contribute to chronic inflammation in seniors. Some of those factors are poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, chronic stress, and underlying health conditions.
Eating a lot of processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can promote inflammation, which is why seniors should pay close attention to their diet. Switching to an anti-inflammatory diet can help seniors reduce inflammation.
Health Problems Caused By Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health problems commonly associated with aging, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and certain cancers. Inflammation contributes to the development and progression of these conditions by damaging tissues, disrupting normal cellular function, and promoting the formation of plaque in blood vessels.
Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle Changes Can Help
Seniors can make lifestyle changes that will reduce inflammation and promote better health. Switching to a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil and fatty fish is one way seniors can reduce inflammation. Regular exercise is another way for seniors to reduce inflammation.
Stress Management
Chronic stress makes inflammation worse, and it can contribute to the development of various health problems. Seniors can reduce stress by trying practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, tai chi, and spending time in nature.
Regular Health Check-ups Can Help
Seniors should schedule regular health check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their overall health and identify any potential issues early on. This includes routine screenings for conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer. By detecting and addressing health problems promptly, seniors can better manage inflammation and prevent complications.
Sources: Source 1 | Source 2 | Source 3
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Avondale, AZ please contact the caring staff at Blessings! for Seniors Companion Care today. Call (623) 594-0819
Blessings! for Seniors Companion Care, is a top provider of home care services in Goodyear, Avondale, Buckeye, Glendale, Peoria, Litchfield Park, Sun City, Sun City West, Tolleson, Phoenix, Youngtown, Surprise and surrounding areas.
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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