5 Effective Strategies for Lowering an Aging Loved One’s Cholesterol

Keeping cholesterol levels low is a good idea for people of all ages, but it’s especially important for seniors, as many age-related illnesses can result from high cholesterol. Here are five ways to keep your senior loved one’s cholesterol low and healthy. 

 

1. Cholesterol-Lowering Foods

Encouraging your loved one to eat less saturated fat and more heart-healthy foods can reduce his or her cholesterol levels anywhere from 4 to 12 percent in a matter of weeks. The following foods have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels in seniors: 

Fresh fruits and vegetables 

Beans 

Salmon and other fatty fish 

Olive oil 

Garlic 

Eating more nutritious foods is just one of the many ways older 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 Home care. Arlington, VA, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

 

2. Exercise

Motivate your loved one to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on a daily basis. Activities like walking, swimming, and gardening can reduce bad cholesterol levels and increase the good ones, but you should make sure any exercise regimen is appropriate for your loved one’s physical condition. 

If your loved one has health conditions or mobility issues that make it challenging to exercise alone safely, a trained caregiver can provide support. When considering homecare services, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits.

 

3. Fiber

Studies show a diet containing 25 to 30 grams of daily fiber can reduce cholesterol. Oatmeal, an excellent source of soluble fiber, can reduce the body’s absorption of cholesterol from the intestines. Your loved one can also take a daily over-the-counter fiber supplement. 

 

4. Red Wine

There’s evidence that a small amount of red wine each day can increase good cholesterol levels. Experts recommend men consume no more than two glasses of alcohol per day, and women should have no more than one. Of course, you should talk with your loved one’s doctor before encouraging him or her to drink wine, since alcohol can interact with certain medications. 

 

5. Chocolate

High cholesterol can lead to blood clots, but dark and bittersweet chocolate contain potent antioxidants that can keep arteries clear by preventing blood platelets from sticking together. Participants in a study released in 2007 showed a remarkable 24 percent increase in good cholesterol levels after consuming cocoa powder during a 12-week period. 

From exercising to preparing healthy foods, there are several tasks seniors may require help with. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Arlington seniors can count on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today.