At Serra Sol, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy heart, especially for those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Our professional staff, including a Director of Nursing and licensed caregivers, is dedicated to helping all our residents live life fully. In line with this commitment, we offer exceptional on-site health services and a well-rounded wellness program, essential for effective dementia care in San Juan Capistrano.
Today, we have compiled a list of diet and nutrition tips that can help our residents focus on heart health. Continue reading to learn more:
1. Embrace Heart-Healthy Fats
Heart-healthy fats are crucial for both cognitive and cardiovascular health, aligning perfectly with our focus on dementia care in San Juan Capistrano. Here are some examples and easy ways to include them in your daily diet:
Olive Oil:
A staple in Mediterranean diets, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats. Use it as a dressing for salads or as a healthier alternative to butter when cooking vegetables.
Avocados:
These are not only delicious but also packed with beneficial fats. Spread avocado on whole-grain toast for breakfast, add slices to sandwiches, or use it to make guacamole as a side for whole-grain chips.
Nuts:
Almonds, walnuts, and pecans are great sources of healthy fats. Add a handful to your morning oatmeal, sprinkle them over salads, or keep a small bag of mixed nuts for a heart-healthy snack.
Seeds:
Chia seeds and flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Mix them into smoothies, yogurts, or use them as a topping for cereals.
Fatty Fish:
Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Grill or bake salmon for a main course, add canned mackerel to salads, or have sardines on whole-grain crackers as a snack.
By incorporating these foods into your daily meals, you can significantly improve heart health, which is a vital aspect of our comprehensive approach to dementia care in San Juan Capistrano. Our dining services at Serra Sol also strive to include these heart-healthy options in our well-balanced menus, ensuring that our residents receive the best nutrition possible.
2. Increase Fiber Intake
Fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables not only aid digestion but also help maintain heart health. Our well-balanced menus are designed to provide these essential nutrients.
3. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining health, especially for seniors. Here are some tips to ensure adequate hydration:
Set Regular Reminders:
Seniors can benefit from setting reminders to drink water throughout the day. This can be done through alarm clocks, smartphone apps, or even through a simple note system.
Keep Water Accessible:
Always have a bottle or glass of water within easy reach. Whether it’s on a bedside table or a favorite chair, easy access encourages more frequent sips.
Flavor Infusion:
To make water more appealing, try infusing it with slices of fruits like lemon, lime, or cucumber. This not only adds flavor but also some additional nutrients.
Eat Water-Rich Foods:
Include fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries. These contribute to hydration and are a healthy snack option.
Monitor Fluid Intake:
Keep track of how much fluid is consumed each day. This doesn’t have to be just water; other beverages and soups count too.
At Serra Sol, ensuring the hydration of our residents is a key component of our care, especially when considering the specific needs of those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Our dedicated staff, including licensed caregivers and medication technicians, are always attentive to the hydration needs of our residents, integrating these practices into our comprehensive dementia care in San Juan Capistrano.
4. Limit Salt and Processed Foods
Reducing salt intake and avoiding processed foods can significantly lower heart disease risks. Our menus at Serra Sol are carefully crafted to ensure low sodium levels without compromising taste. Remember that a treat here and there is okay, but it’s vital to maintain your diet as well as possible.
5. Eat More Fish
Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and trout, are great for heart health. Replacing red meats with fish even once or twice a week can do wonders for lowering cholesterol, bolstering heart health, and feeling like the happiest, healthiest version of yourself. This aligns with our approach to dementia care in San Juan Capistrano, where nutrition plays a pivotal role.
6. Choose Lean Proteins
Once again, lean proteins are an excellent option for helping you to feel full without the heaviness of red meat. Instead of steak or pork, a few times a week, opt for lean protein sources like poultry, fish, and beans. Our dining services are proud to provide a variety of options to meet these nutritional needs.
7. Enjoy a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables
A colorful plate is a healthy plate. Our menus feature a range of fruits and vegetables to ensure a diverse nutrient intake.
8. Limit Sugary Beverages
If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your heart health, start by cutting down on sugary drinks. Instead, opt for water, herbal teas, or sugar-free beverages. In fact, herbal teas can have many health benefits, including aiding in digestion and improving sleep quality.
9. Regular Physical Activity
Last but not least, it is important to combine a healthy diet with regular physical activity. Our fitness studio, equipped with various fitness equipment and exercise classes, supports the physical well-being of our residents. We want all of our residents to stay active, fit, and involved.
Prioritize Your Heart Health at Serra Sol
In addition to these dietary tips, we provide ongoing support through physician oversight, assistance with telemedicine appointments, and on-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Regular resident assessments and communication with loved ones are also integral to our approach to dementia care in San Juan Capistrano.
At Serra Sol, we are committed to ensuring that every resident enjoys a life enriched with good health, proper nutrition, and comprehensive care. Our aim is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where those living with Alzheimer’s disease can thrive. To learn more about our community or to schedule a time to book a tour, contact us today!