Sunlight’s Health Benefits for Seniors

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Why is Sunlight Healthy for Aging Adults in Philadelphia, PA

The sun provides energy for the planet and keeps it healthy, and it can also have similar effects on the elderly if approached properly and safely. Here are some of the health benefits your senior loved one can gain from spending a little time in th sun.

Enhances Brain Function

Getting some sun can boost memory. The sun is a natural source of vitamin D, which researchers have linked to increased brain function. A study done by David Llewellyn at the University of Cambridge evaluated vitamin D levels in more than 1,700 women and men aged 65 and over and discovered those with lower levels of vitamin D had reduced cognitive function. Further research has found sunlight may boost nerve cell growth in the part of the brain that organizes, forms, and stores memories.

Cognitive and physical health challenges are common among aging adults, but they don’t have to manage them alone. In Philadelphia, homecare agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

Promotes Bone Health

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition stated there’s evolving evidence indicating a link between vitamin D3 and bone density. Vitamin D3, which regulates how much calcium the body absorbs, is manufactured when sunlight hits the skin. The more vitamin D3 your loved one has in his or her blood, the less likely he or she will be to have a bone fracture. 

Alleviates Alzheimer’s Symptoms

Studies have shown seniors with Alzheimer’s who are in the sunlight throughout the day score better on mental tests. The Journal of the American Medical Association published a study that stated seniors with Alzheimer’s who were exposed to bright sunlight experienced fewer symptoms of agitation, depression, and insomnia and lost less cognitive function than those who were exposed to less daytime lighting. Scientists attribute these benefits to a more regular body clock. 

If your elderly loved one is living with Alzheimer’s and needs help managing the symptoms, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Philadelphia seniors can rely on our revolutionary Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program that promotes cognitive health and delays the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. CTM also encourages seniors to engage with others in an enjoyable way and helps them build new routines to look forward to.

Increases Sleep Quality

When sunlight hits a person’s eyes, a message goes to the pineal gland in the brain to stop the manufacture of melatonin, a hormone that facilitates sleep. The body receives a sign it’s no longer dark outside, which keeps the body clock regular. Low levels of melatonin production at night because of overproduction during the day have been associated with poor sleep quality, especially in seniors. Encourage your loved one to take his or her sunglasses off early in the morning so his or her body can receive the message it’s daytime and halt the production of melatonin.

Seniors with health conditions who need assistance getting outside to enjoy sunshine and fresh air can benefit from the help of trained professional caregivers. Elderly home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (215) 645-4663.

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