Brain Foods That May Help Preserve Memory and Slow Dementia Progression
Memory-related issues like Alzheimer’s and dementia are some of the common health issues among seniors in the US. According to a report by the Alzheimer’s Association, over seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, and the number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050.
You may wonder why memory issues so commonly appear among older adults as they age. The reason is that, just like any other organ, the brain also ages and experiences a cognitive decline if it’s not taken care of. While dementia is irreversible and gets worse as cognitive functions further decline, a diet rich in brain food can help slow down the symptoms of dementia.
In this post, we’ll discuss seven brain foods memory care communities provide that will help your senior loved one slow down their cognitive decline and delay dementia.
7 Brain Foods That May Help Preserve Memory and Fight Dementia
1. Colorful Fruits and Vegetables
Many Neurological studies suggest that foods with higher levels of carotenoids are associated with better brain health and a lower risk of dementia. Carotenoids are the pigments that give fruits and veggies their orange and red color. These include carrots, papaya, apricots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, such as kale and spinach.
If your senior loved one is showing early signs of dementia, such as confusion, forgetfulness, and changes in mood or behavior, consider adding colorful fruits and vegetables to their diet.
2. Berries
Other than colorful fruits and vegetables, berries are also known to prevent cell damage and slow down the progression of brain damage from free radicals. Antioxidants and flavonoids found in berries help neutralize free radicals, which prevents them from causing damage to brain cells and tissues.
Moreover, foods such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are naturally low in sugar. If your senior loved one has a chronic illness like diabetes, you can consider adding berries to their diet plan.
3. Fish
Fatty fish, including tuna and salmon, contain healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, which strengthen brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Our bodies don’t produce omega-3 fatty acids, but we can rely on fatty fish, including salmon and tuna. Medical experts suggest that two to three servings of fish a week will be enough to provide your senior loved one with the essential omega-3 nutrients their brain needs to preserve memory and slow dementia progression.
4. Whole Grains
Whole-grain foods are rich in nutrients that reduce inflammation in the brain, preserving memory and slowing the progression of dementia. Food like whole oats, whole wheat, barley, and brown rice is great for your senior loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
5. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are another source of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as other brain nutrients such as vitamin E, vitamin B, magnesium, and zinc. Studies suggest that all these nutrients improve brain health and reduce age-related cognitive decline. You can add foods such as walnuts, almonds, peanuts, flax seeds, and pumpkin seeds to your senior loved one’s diet.
6. Lean Red Meat
Lean red meat contains iron, which helps in the production of neurotransmitters as well as hemoglobin in the red blood cell that carries oxygen throughout the body, including the brain.
An adequate oxygen supply to the brain will enhance the attention and concentration of your senior loved one. As a result, they may be able to focus on learning new things without getting confused, which can stimulate cognitive functions and slow down the progression of dementia.
7. Avocados
Avocados contain omega-3 fatty acids, but are not as rich as fatty fish like salmon and tuna. However, avocados do contain other nutrients that are helpful for brain health, such as vitamin E, which is known for slowing down the progression of memory-related issues like Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
Looking for a Safe and Comfortable Memory Care Community that Helps Your Senior Loved One with Dementia? Visit Rio Terra Senior Living Today
Unfortunately, memory-related issues like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are irreversible. Once your senior loved one develops dementia, you can only help them preserve their memory to some extent and slow down its progression with continuous memory care.
Fortunately, high-quality senior living communities, such as Rio Terra, offer a comprehensive memory care program to support your loved one and ensure they get the most out of their daily life. At Rio Terra Senior Living, we provide a range of supportive amenities and services in a comfortable, safe, and home-like environment that will keep your senior loved one mentally stimulated.
If you want to learn more about how we can help your loved one with dementia in their retirement life, schedule a tour of Rio Terra today!
