Health Essentials Practices for Seniors and Their Caregivers
Health Essentials Practices for Seniors and Their Caregivers
You never know when an unexpected illness or injury is going to happen. Especially vulnerable seniors with preexisting medical conditions, like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or cancer are more likely to fall ill again. As a caregiver there are some precautions you need to take such as if they are getting their daily required nutrients, especially ones that support immunity for adults, and that their medications are updated. Also, stock on supplemental nutrition, like Ensure Gold or Ensure Gold Plant-Based Protein for non-milk drinkers, which both have 12 vitamins and minerals that helps support immunity^, to provide extra support when food alone is not enough.1, 3, 8
Always stay updated on medications
Some seniors believe that it is not that much of an issue if they miss a few days of medicine or continue to dose in amounts that are no longer applicable, which can be dangerous on its own. In any case, consult a medical professional for their effectiveness and have at least 1 to 3 months’ supply. The types of medicine to stock on are pain killers, fever reducers, and cough medicines besides the ones prescribed for other health conditions.1, 2, 3
Remember to stock on disinfectants and cleaning products because prevention is better for an immunity compromised adult. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after providing care, providing meals, using the bathroom, or returning home from public places. When home with your loved one, clean high contact spaces frequently, including the equipment used by the senior in your care.1, 3
Practice physical distancing, not social isolation
Mental health has the same impact as lack of sleep, chronic stress, poor diet, and social pressure does on our immune system. The main cause is that stress releases certain types of inflammatory proteins that increase inflammation in the body constantly, which puts a strain on the heart, brain and other organs.4, 5
Older adults cherish time spent with friends and family, so practice physical distancing, but not social isolation. To alleviate loneliness, simple things like smiling through difficulties, striking up a conversation, and even doing video calls with friends can help. Help keep loved ones connected through use of technology, in place of physical visits. Get them used to using social media and even introduce them to easy-to-follow online gaming. Having them keep diaries or adopt home hobbies like knitting, quilting, sewing, or even simple gardening to keep them physically and mentally active.1, 4, 5
Have a stock of healthy long-lasting foods on hand that support immunity and muscles
Stock on carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and winter squash for Vitamin A. This vitamin is important for increasing immune cell action in the body, which is a first-line defense against infections. Since most citrus fruits rich in Vitamin C, another vitamin that increases immunity activity, lasts even longer when refrigerated or dried, stocking on them is an easy way to provide healthy snacks or after meal dessert. Dried beans, rice, quinoa, and soy products have almost 8 grams of protein per half cup serving, so stocking on them will provide a loved one with plant-based protein when access to animal protein is not possible. When any of these items are precooked and stored properly, it can save time and reduce the number of trips you have to make to public spaces.3, 6, 7
Cooking together and having your loved one’s input on meal plans will help them feel involved and take note of what food items they need to eat more of to support their adult immunity. But for situations when a senior is not able to have full meals, supplements like Ensure Gold, rated No. 1 Physician Recommended Oral Nutritional Supplement in the U.S. **, can help improve adult immunity^. Scientifically formulated with high quality protein and HMB (Hydroxymethylbutyrate, a metabolite of amino acid leucine, responsible for muscle health) and 28 essential vitamins and minerals, 12 of which support immunity^ (eg. Vitamin A, C, D, Protein), it can help improve strength## as well.8
Being prepared avoids aggravating pre-existing health conditions or preventing a new illness from developing. Staying connected will help them feel needed, while having healthy foods on hand will take care of them nutritionally. As for Ensure Gold, provide as a meal replacement or accompaniment 2 times a day at 6 scoops per serving with 185ml of water. For those who do not like the milk, Ensure Gold Plant-Based protein, made from soy, rice and quinoa, is the alternative for non-milk drinkers to also have the foundation to live life to the fullest in the years to come.
For samples of either Ensure Gold or Ensure Gold Plant-Based, sign up today.8
References:
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-caregiving-for-the-elderly
- https://www.lcplfa.org/blog/15-essential-items-emergency-preparedness-kits-seniors
- https://www.healthline.com/health/stocking-up-for-covid-19#sick-day-essentials
- https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/feelings-and-symptoms/loneliness-in-older-people/
- https://www.dispatchhealth.com/blog/how-depression-affects-your-immune-system/
- https://www.healthline.com/health-news/foods-with-a-long-shelf-life#Healthier-choices
- https://www.dancemagazine.com/food-for-immune-system/
- https://www.ensuremyanmar.com/eng/ensure-powder/
^ Ensure Gold contains protein, Vitamin A, B6, B12, C, D, E, Folate and selenium, copper, zinc and iron, that help support the normal function of the immune system)
** IQVIA, using the ProVoice Survey, fielded to 14,459 physicians from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
## Ensure Gold contains scientifically evaluated level of protein which has been shown to improve strength