Tips for Reducing Cholesterol Levels in the Golden Years

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Reducing Cholesterol Levels in the Golden Years in Philadelphia, PA

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and high cholesterol is one of the most significant indicators of risk. Nearly 100 million American adults have high cholesterol, and this tends to be more common in seniors. Here are some simple ways seniors can get their cholesterol under control. 

Eat More Fiber

Eating fiber-rich foods can promote digestive health and help seniors achieve a feeling of fullness. However, it’s also an effective way to keep cholesterol levels under control. Normally, the body absorbs dietary cholesterol through the digestive tract, but when it’s combined with dietary fiber, the fiber acts like a sponge, soaking up the extra cholesterol and carrying it out of the body.

Seniors who need help preparing nutritious meals should consider professional in-home care. Senior care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Laugh More Often

The old saying that laughter is the best medicine is continually being proven true. Scientists have already found that people who laugh frequently are less likely to experience depression, heart attacks, and strokes. Now, research is showing that laughter can also reduce levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol are strongly correlated with cardiac disease, so lowering it is key to decreasing the risk.

Avoid Excessive Carbohydrate Consumption

Everyone loves sugary treats, but for seniors who want to avoid heart disease, it’s best not to overindulge. Carbohydrates, especially refined flour and sugar, oxidize LDL cholesterol in the body. This changes it to a substance called VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which causes significantly more damage than LDL alone. Oxidized cholesterol is more likely to adhere to arterial walls, creating brittle plaques that can promote blood clots and blocked arteries, leading to heart attacks or strokes.

Eating more nutritious meals 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 service. Philadelphia, PA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Attend Regular Check-Ups

With age, attending routine medical check-ups becomes even more important. Doctors can monitor cholesterol, prescribe treatments if the levels are too high, and catch health issues before they become serious problems. Many seniors skip appointments out of fear or because they lack the ability to get to their appointments. Going with your loved one can provide him or her with support, or you may consider hiring a caregiver who can offer reliable transportation, take notes during appointments, and implement doctor-recommended changes in your loved one’s care plan.

From exercising to preparing healthy foods, there are several tasks seniors may require help with. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Philadelphia respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (215) 645-4663.

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