There is no permanent cure for Parkinson’s disease, which is why seniors should focus on alleviating the symptoms. In addition to taking prescription medications, seniors might also want to consider natural treatments that help with issues such as trembling, mood swings, muscle soreness, and digestive disorders. The La Mesa home care experts at Coast Care Partners discuss five natural ways to relieve some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
1. Don’t Eat Processed Foods
General inflammation can exacerbate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and speed up its progression. Foods that are high in white sugar and processed grains have been linked to inflammation of the brain and blood vessels. Seniors with Parkinson’s disease should try to avoid soda, baked goods, candy, and anything else that could potentially impact their cardiovascular or cognitive health. A recent study funded by the American Academy of Neurology found that consuming dairy products might worsen the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
2. Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods
Digestive disorders are very common among seniors with Parkinson’s disease, and a healthy diet can alleviate some of these issues. If your loved one experiences constipation, he or she should eat plenty of foods that contain fiber, including peas, lentils, black beans, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. More research is needed on the subject, but some Parkinson’s experts believe antioxidants may slow the progression of this disease. Antioxidants can be found in eggs, whole grains, leafy green vegetables, and legumes.
3. Take Supplements
No matter how varied and nutritious your loved one’s diet might be, he or she may end up developing a deficiency at some point. Supplementing with high-quality supplements is a great option for seniors with Parkinson’s who have a difficult time eating larger meals or certain types of foods. A coenzyme Q10 supplement with vitamin C and E can prevent oxidative damage to the brain and boost cognitive health.
4. Exercise
Strength training is vital for boosting overall health. Many comprehensive studies have confirmed strength training alleviates tremors and dexterity issues. Cardiovascular training is also a great option for seniors with Parkinson’s disease, but finding a practical way to exercise can be difficult. Your loved one might enjoy options such as swimming with a partner nearby or dancing to his or her favorite music for a few minutes every day.
5. Schedule Acupuncture Appointments
A study published in the journal Medicine found that acupuncture has a positive impact on most seniors with Parkinson’s disease. During an acupuncture session, the brain clears away some of the unnecessary molecules that cause inflammation. Before scheduling an appointment, make sure the acupuncturist is fully licensed and certified to work in your state. A good acupuncturist will have a 4-year Master’s degree in Acupuncture and be certified by a state board.
Older adults living with serious health issues can benefit from professional in-home care. When it comes to high-quality senior home care, La Mesa families trust Coast Care Partners. We are a leading caregiver agency with several years of experience in the home care industry. Our caregivers can help your senior loved one with an array of daily activities and make healthy lifestyle choices that promote longevity. To create a customized in-home care plan for your elderly loved one, give us a call at 619-354-2544 today.
