People tend to do less and less as they age, which can impact strength and muscle mass. Muscle is what holds up your body and allows you to move around and have the strength to stabilize yourself. This is why it is so crucial to maintain muscle mass even as an elderly person. Companion care at home may be the best tool to help your senior live better and prevent muscle loss through a proper routine. Even if you are taking on the caregiving role, you will want to understand how to help a senior prevent muscle loss.
Sarcopenia is the name for muscle loss that comes with getting older. In fact, it starts happening around age 30 and gets worse as the years go by. But it tends to become more of a problem as time progresses. Even though muscle loss can’t be stopped completely, it can be slowed down if your older loved one follows the five tips below.
Eat Protein-Rich Foods to Help With Muscle Mass
At any age, protein builds and keeps muscles in good shape. This is why your loved one can lose muscle if they don’t get enough protein in their diet. Trained and professional home care assistance may help keep your senior eating the right things all day long and on some type of routine. Some naturally high-protein foods that taste good and are good for you are things like fish, eggs, chicken, pumpkin seeds, and yogurt.
Adding in Weight Resistance Training
Performing exercises like hip thrusts and rows, which progressively build muscle mass, may help those who have lost muscle mass. Resistance bands might be an excellent option for older adults as a substitute for free weights. People who cannot use weights in the gym might still benefit from resistance training by swimming. Exercise is something that everyone, no matter what age they are, should try to make part of their routine. Your senior should check with their doctor before beginning any new exercise regime, with the help of companion care at home.
Take Daily Walks
Walking daily is one of the simplest techniques to prevent muscle loss. It’s effective since it focuses on the muscles that aid mobility while also increasing blood flow to the muscular tissues. This helps to improve mobility. Regularly placing one foot in front of the other strengthens the muscles in the lower back. Walking also has the benefit of allowing you to go at your own speed. Companion care at home will accompany your senior on daily walks and ensure they are dressed properly, don’t get lost and take safe steps to avoid a fall.
Focus on Muscles They Use for Functional Movements
Examples of these actions are getting up from a chair, moving up and down stairs, getting in and out of the bathtub or shower, and walking. These muscles may be addressed in various ways to improve their function.
Rely on Companion Care at Home for Help
You probably worry about your elderly parent’s safety if they live alone. Whatever stage of life your loved one is at, you want to ensure they have all they need for a comfortable and happy life. It may be time to consider companion care at home for your older family member, even if you live nearby. This type of home care may keep your loved ones on a schedule and engaged, which can help them live longer and better lives.
Source
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sarcopenia
If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Englewood, CO, call the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Denver today. 303-756-9322
