Brain fog is a common problem for older adults. It describes a place of feeling confused, forgetful, and as if the person’s brain just isn’t working as well as it should. Brain fog can happen to people of all ages, but seniors often find themselves dealing with brain fog and worrying about what it might mean for them in terms of their overall health. Solutions like companion care at home can help seniors to cope with brain fog, depending on the underlying causes.
Aging
Lots of changes occur in the body and the brain as seniors age. There is always a certain amount of cognitive decline that people experience as they grow older. The brain starts to process information a little more slowly, memories become more difficult to retrieve, and cognitive function declines a bit. These challenges increase over time.
Sleep Trouble
Seniors are especially susceptible to sleep disturbances, especially disrupted sleep patterns and insomnia. When seniors aren’t getting good quality sleep, they’re more likely to have trouble with cognitive function. Sleep deprivation has been linked to all sorts of symptoms, including brain fog. Sleep deprivation has also been found to have similar effects to drinking on brain function.
Nutritional Deficiency
Nutrition always matters, especially for seniors. Inadequate nutrition keeps seniors from getting the vitamins and other nutrients that keep their bodies and brains fueled so they can function properly. Seniors who are having a tough time eating healthy meals may need extra help with meal preparation.
Medication Side Effects
Many seniors take medications and those medications bring with them side effects that can affect brain function. Multiple medications with similar side effects tend to stack those impacts, making them even stronger. Getting medication reviews on a regular basis can help seniors to find the right medications for their needs, hopefully while also reducing brain fog.
Health Issues
Chronic health issues from chronic pain to autoimmune disorders and more all impact cognitive functioning and can lead to brain fog. Some conditions impact how well blood flows to the brain, others cause inflammation, and others are simply so distracting that it’s difficult to think. Working with medical providers to keep these conditions under better control is so important.
Stress
Mental health concerns and stress are a huge problem for seniors. They also contribute to brain fog. Spending time with companion care at home can be a great way for seniors to get social interaction and to find ways to better manage their stress and other difficult feelings.
Dehydration
When seniors aren’t getting enough fluids each day, they very easily become dehydrated. Dehydration causes all sorts of health issues, but it also dramatically affects how well the brain works. Home care providers can help seniors to remember to drink plenty of water and eat hydrating foods on a regular basis.
Lack of Mental Stimulation
Lack of mental stimulation, including boredom, can also contribute to brain fog for seniors. When seniors don’t have enough mental engagement, it’s more difficult for their brains to work properly. Engaging in activities that keep the brain working, like reading, doing puzzles, or learning new things all help to keep the brain working.
Brain fog occurs for a variety of different reasons. Enlisting the help of companion care at home and other solutions keeps seniors healthier and happier while also helping to reduce brain fog.
If you or an aging loved one are considering companion care at home in Vicksburg, MI, please contact the caring staff at Fresh Perspective Home Care today. Call (269) 329-4717.
Fresh Perspective Home Care is a trusted non-medical senior home care provider in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Richland, Vicksburg, Schoolcraft, Three Rivers, Gull Lake, Yorkville and Otsego, Michigan.
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