Help! My Aging Parent Has High Cholesterol
Paul’s elderly mother has recently been diagnosed with high cholesterol levels Paul knew that they needed to make some changes to their lifestyle, as they were very sedentary and ate a lot of fast food because he was so busy. However, the doctor stressed that if his aging mom did not lower her cholesterol levels soon, the condition could jeopardize her health and boost her risk of a heart attack. Paul vowed to do everything possible to help his aging mom lower her cholesterol.
September is Cholesterol Education Month, where people have plenty of opportunities to learn all about the dangers of high cholesterol and make an effort to get tested.
If family caregivers have elderly relatives that haven’t gotten their cholesterol levels checked in a while, they should schedule an appointment to do so.
Here are 5 important things that family caregivers should know about high cholesterol in elderly adults:
1. Cholesterol is a natural substance.
More than 70 million Americans suffer from high cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Cholesterol is produced in the liver and travels through the bloodstream. It is also found in fatty foods that people eat. It is helpful in making the cell membranes strong and contributes to digestion and the production of hormones and vitamin C. A little cholesterol is important for a healthy body, but too much cholesterol leads to problems.
2. High cholesterol levels are bad for the health.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance that can build up along the artery walls, narrowing the path where blood flows. When the body cannot break down cholesterol fast enough, it sticks to the arteries and other areas of cholesterol. Eventually, the bloodstream can be blocked, leading to a heart attack or stroke. People with high cholesterol are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease.
3. Only a doctor can diagnose high cholesterol.
There are no external symptoms that would let family caregivers or elder care providers recognize that an aging adult has high cholesterol. A doctor needs to do a blood test to check cholesterol levels as part of a standard medical appointment. If the levels are high, the doctor can prescribe medication that can help lower cholesterol. They will also recommend significant lifestyle changes.
4. Family caregivers and elder care providers can help prevent high cholesterol in seniors.
Elderly adults that depend on family caregivers and elder care providers need their help in making some serious lifestyle changes. It all starts with a nutritious diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The elderly adults should get some regular exercise, as much as they are able. They can also stop smoking to lower their cholesterol levels.
5. Cholesterol Education Month connects people with resources to help.
During the month of September, medical experts, hospitals, clinics and public health organizations are working hard to spread the word about cholesterol. It’s the perfect time for family caregivers to focus on their aging loved one and make an appointment for them to get a blood test.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Homecare in Hartford, AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900.
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