On a warm day, nothing is more refreshing than a cold drink. However, many flavored beverages like sodas and fruit punches aren’t always the healthiest options for seniors. Freshly brewed iced tea actually offers a few benefits for the elderly.
Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk
Tea contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent or reduce the risk of many health conditions, including neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s develops when a type of plaque forms in the brain, which can cause damage to neurons. Tea contains the catechin EGCG, which can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by preventing the formation of these plaques and breaking down existing plaque formation. This repairs the damage by creating new neurons in the area of the brain responsible for memory. Drinking tea is just one way aging 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.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.
Promote Alertness & Calmness
Tea also contains caffeine and a unique amino acid called L-theanine. The combination of these two elements has been shown to increase mental alertness, focus, and cognitive function. L-theanine has a calming effect, so the alertness is accompanied by less stress and anxiety. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly home care. Des Moines Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Keep Cool
Sweating is the body’s way of staying cool. When sweat evaporates, the heat from the body is transferred into the air, which then cools the body. As a person ages, the body doesn’t produce as much sweat as before, which is why seniors need to drink more liquids during hot weather. Iced tea is perfect for seniors because it has the added health benefits of tea and the caffeine keeps the sweat glands working.
Prevent Dehydration
Hot weather and certain medications can cause dehydration, making it important for seniors to stay hydrated. Hydration isn’t only important for the sweat glands but also for the healthy functioning of the heart, muscles, and cells. Dehydration can lead to serious health conditions such as heat exhaustion, but sipping on iced tea throughout the day is a great way for seniors to stay hydrated. Encourage your loved one to try drinking tea as part of an effort to adopt a healthy lifestyle. A professional caregiver can also help your loved one make positive lifestyle changes. If your elderly loved one needs Des Moines live-in care, turn to Home Care Assistance. We offer a program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to focus on eating nutritious foods, exercising on a regular basis, maintaining strong social ties, and other lifestyle factors known to increase longevity. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (515) 264-2438 today.
