It’s the world’s favorite beverage, something to enjoy in the morning and give you an extra boost through the day. But what if we told you the drink of mornings also supplied health benefits that are especially appealing to seniors?
Improved Cognition
Perhaps one of the biggest concerns for seniors is the health of their brain. Everyone knows that as we age, the cognitive function of our brain declines. We start to forget things, and it becomes harder to work through logistical problems. That’s not to mention the many people affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia.
Science has shown that not only can caffeine help to prevent mild cognitive impairment that occurs from normal aging, but it may also be able to prevent or delay dementia. In addition, caffeine may also be able to lower a senior’s risk of developing dementia in their lifetime. With all its cognitive benefits, it’s important to note that too much coffee may have the opposite effect, so caregivers play a helpful role in ensuring that a senior drinks just the right amount.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Studies have found that even one cup of coffee a week can decrease the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. These benefits can be tremendous for those at a higher risk of cardiovascular problems.
Improved Mental Health
Seniors are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders, specifically depression. There are many factors that contribute to this, including loneliness, new health conditions, and having to relocate.
Coffee offers a mood boost to those that drink it, which can help to improve motivation and alertness. In addition, studies have found that coffee may be able to reduce the risk of depression, improving the mental health of seniors who enjoy this beverage.
Antioxidant Boost
Antioxidants are a powerful benefit for the body, and coffee is one of the top antioxidant sources. One of the best things about antioxidants is that they help to prevent and protect against the signs of aging. In addition, antioxidants also help reduce and protect against inflammation in the body, which the elderly are more susceptible to.
The benefits don’t stop there; antioxidants also help reduce the risk of diseases such as heart disease and cancer, which thrive upon inflammation.
Drink Safely
As with all things, too much of something good can be bad. It’s best for family members and home healthcare aides to monitor a senior’s caffeine consumption.
It’s also important for caregivers to be aware of who might be more likely to experience caffeine-related side effects, such as gastrointestinal problems, rapid heart rates, dehydration, and elevated blood pressure.
Individuals more susceptible to these problems have:
- insomnia
- migraines
- muscle tremors
- urinary incontinence
- anxiety
- stomach problems
Coffee does more than just taste good and give us an energy boost. It offers a myriad of benefits that are especially beneficial for seniors and can help them live a happier, healthier, and longer life. So, don’t feel guilty enjoying a daily cup (or three) of coffee because it can possibly offer some incredible benefits!
Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases or conditions. Always consult your loved one’s healthcare provider before making any dietary changes.
Allcare Home Health is here for all of your Home Health needs. Call (919) 301-0236 today to schedule an in-home assessment with one of our experienced RNs.
References
Liu, Q., Wu, Y., Cheng, H., Xia, T., Ding, H., & Wang, H. et al. (2016). Habitual coffee consumption and risk of cognitive decline/dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Nutrition, 32(6), 628-636. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2015.11.015
Association Between Coffee Intake and Incident Heart Failure Risk. (2022). Circulation: Heart Failure. Retrieved from https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.119.006799
Navarro, A., Abasheva, D., Martínez-González, M., Ruiz-Estigarribia, L., Martín-Calvo, N., Sánchez-Villegas, A., & Toledo, E. (2018). Coffee Consumption and the Risk of Depression in a Middle-Aged Cohort: The SUN Project. Nutrients, 10(9), 1333. doi: 10.3390/nu10091333