It is important for seniors of all genders to remain healthy, but women face several health risks that are not common among men. Because women’s bodies are different, they need to take a few extra steps to maintain optimum health.
1. Stop Smoking
Smoking can be more damaging for women than men. Though researchers are not precisely aware of the causes, women smokers are far more likely to develop heart disease than male smokers or nonsmokers of both genders.
If your senior loved one needs help maintaining a higher quality of life, consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver. Jefferson County 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.
2. Understand Heart Attack Signs
The symptoms of heart attack are different in men and women. Senior women are more likely to feel back, neck, arm, or shoulder discomfort during a heart attack. Chest pain may feel like an uncomfortable pressure that makes it difficult to breathe.
3. Take a Calcium Supplement
Postmenopausal women are at risk of developing osteoporosis later in life. Your loved one can reduce these risks by getting an adequate amount of calcium. This important mineral keeps bones strong even in old age.
4. Get Help at Home
Many senior women experience excessive stress because they are trying to take care of themselves, their husbands, and their homes. Getting someone to assist with keeping the home clean or taking care of a husband with a serious medical condition can reduce a senior woman’s stress and lower her blood pressure.
In Jefferson County, Colorado, respite care is a great help to many families. Caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times, which puts family caregivers at risk for burnout. However, an in-home caregiver can take over your loved one’s care, allowing you the time you need to focus on your own health, maintain a full-time job, or care for other members of your family.
5. Eat Plenty of Fiber
Fiber is important because it aids in digestion, lowers blood cholesterol, and reduces risks of colon cancer and diabetes. Senior women need at least 21 grams of fiber per day.
6. Exercise More Often
Though this tip for staying healthy applies to both genders, many older women forget the importance of exercise. Weightlifting and cardio can boost heart health, coordination, balance, and strength, so they are important for preventing serious health conditions and accidental injuries.
7. Avoid Excessive Iron
After the onset of menopause, women need 8 mg of iron per day. Too much iron can cause liver or heart damage, so your loved one should not take iron supplements or iron-containing multivitamins unless instructed by her doctor.
8. Get Regular Breast Examinations
As women age, their breasts can appear denser in mammogram screenings, which makes cancer difficult to detect. Your loved one can lower the risk of breast cancer by getting an examination regularly.
Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in home care Jefferson County, Colorado, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver. Call Home Care Assistance at (303) 987-5992 to hire a professional caregiver for your elderly loved one.