Health benefits of black coffee for the elderly

1. Coffee Gives the Brain a Boost

If you’ve been wondering what coffee is good for, look no further than the benefits it provides to the brain. Coffee contains caffeine that not only makes you feel energized and less tired, but it also enhances memory and brain activity. Studies have shown that regular coffee consumption reduces age-related cognitive decline in seniors and may even protect the brain more effectively than other healthy beverages with caffeine like green tea.

2. Coffee Helps Decrease the Likelihood of Diseases

In addition to giving your brain a boost, another one of the reasons to drink coffee

is because it has been linked to decreasing the likelihood of contracting numerous diseases. According to the Mayo Clinic, coffee may offer some protection against Parkinson's disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, liver cancer, heart attack, and stroke.

One of the particular reasons coffee is a health drink for seniors is its ability to protect vision. There is an antioxidant in coffee that has the added benefit of preventing age-related eye diseases and fighting vision loss. One thing is certain, black coffee is good for you! It’s for this reason alone that many senior living facilities encourage their residents to drink coffee with their morning meals.

3. Coffee Promotes Socialization

Is there any better feeling than sitting down with a friend and sharing a chat over a nice warm beverage? Among the other reasons why coffee is the best health drink for senior citizens due to health benefits, it’s also a great way to bring people together. By adding a coffee bar to your facility, you can promote social interaction between your residents and their guests. Increased social interaction has been linked with less risk of depression, longer life span, and was found to be more likely to have higher levels of physical activity.

4. Coffee Supports Brain Health

So, what does drinking coffee do to your body? While we’ve already covered a variety of other benefits dealing with the body, coffee also helps the mind. Healthline reported that a review of 11 observational studies in more than 29,000 people found that the more coffee people consumed, the lower their risk of Alzheimer’s disease. And, several studies have demonstrated that moderate coffee consumption could be associated with a lower risk of dementia and cognitive decline.

5. Coffee Lowers the Risk of Depression

Coffee consumption has been linked with an 8% reduced risk of depression per cup!

Whether it’s because of the energizing caffeine or simply the delicious taste, coffee has showed in countless studies to not only boost mood, but also decrease depression.

Unfortunately, studies show a high number of senior citizens suffering from depression. While there are medications and senior living programs to help combat depression, a simple morning cup of coffee can also be the easiest way to prevent and battle against this disease. Count this one among the reasons why coffee is good for you, and why your facility should add a coffee bar for senior citizens.

6. Coffee is Linked to Living Longer

This is perhaps one of the most compelling answers to the question “Is coffee good for the body?” TIME reported there was a link discovered between coffee and reduced mortality risk that was strongest in people over 45 years of age. Those adults that drank 2 cups per day were associated with a 30% lower risk of dying over the next 10 years.

Source:

This article was published in https://www.hubert.com/resources/article/coffee-

benefits-for-seniors on December 15, 2022

What Safety Measures Senior Citizens Should Take During Online Transactions

According to media reports on data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), more than 13,000 banking frauds happened in FY2022-23, and a significant share of such fraud included transactions related to digital payments. The number of online transaction frauds is increasing every year. Senior citizens must be extra careful as they are often unaware of such deceptions. So, let’s find out some important Safety Measures Senior Citizens Should Take During Online Transactions. Whether you are doing the online transaction through your computer or mobile, you must use only genuine software for doing the online transactions. If using a mobile, you should download the APP from the APP store or the Play Store. If you are using a computer, you should use an authentic web address that shows genuine SSL certification to perform the online transaction.

Set Strong Password/PIN For Online Transaction

Whether you want to perform a financial transaction or online shopping, always set up your account with a strong password. Your password should include special characters, numbers and alphabets in lower and upper case. Never use a common password which can be easily recognized by the deceivers.

You should try to remember the password, or if it’s difficult, you may write it down on paper and keep it safely in your locker. You may also save passwords in mobile apps, which allows a high level of encryption and safety.

Never Share OTP And Other Sensitive Details With Anyone

Often sensitive online transactions require a one-time password (OTP) shared on your email or through SMS. You must not share such OTPs with anyone. In some cases, you may get a call from fraudsters depicting themselves as a bank official, asking you to reveal the OTP. Never rely on such phone calls because a bank official never asks about your sensitive or private information. 

Keep Security Software Updated On Your Mobile And Computer

Mobile phone companies and computer operation systems often release security patches to provide better and enhanced safety features on your device. Always keep your device updated with the latest security features. You may also install security software such as antivirus on your device to further enhance online transaction safety.

Don’t Click On Unknown Links Shared On Your Email, SMS Or Social Media

Avoid clicking a link shared on your email, SMS or social media account, especially if you are unsure whether it’s a genuine or fake link. Fraudsters often send a fake link that they use to steal information from the receiver’s device.

New cheating and deception tricks are developed every day by fraudsters so you must not restrict yourself to the above-mentioned safety measures. You need to stay vigilant and be aware of warning messages often sent by banks and financial institutions to perform a safe online transaction.

Source: Article by Amit Sethi on August 17, 2023 published in Outlook India

https://retirement.outlookindia.com/spend/cash-flow/what-safety-measures-

senior-citizens-should-take-during-online-transactions

The Elderly and Monsoon Challenges: Caring for Senior Citizens

As the monsoon season arrives, it brings relief from scorching heat but also poses unique challenges, especially for senior citizens. The elderly are more susceptible to certain health risks during this time due to weakened immunity and age-related health conditions.

Understanding the Vulnerabilities

1. Weakened Immune System: Aging often leads to a weakened immune system, making senior citizens more susceptible to infections and diseases brought on by the monsoon weather.

2. Respiratory Concerns: Humid conditions can aggravate respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

3. Mobility Issues: Slippery surfaces during rainfall can be a genuine risk factor for falls and injuries for seniors with mobility issues.

Health precautions for seniors

1. Vaccination: Encouraging seniors to get vaccinated against common monsoon-related illnesses like influenza can significantly reduce the risk of infections.

2. Regular Medical check-up: Timely medical check-up can help identify and manage any health issues, allowing for timely intervention during the monsoon season.

3. Hygiene Practices: Emphasise the importance of regular hand-washing and maintaining personal hygiene to prevent infections.

4. Respiratory Care: Provide guidance on using air purifiers, humidifiers and wearing masks to reduce exposure to allergens and airborne pollutants.

Nutrition and hydration

1. Balanced Diet: Advise seniors to consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to boost their immunity and overall health.

2. Adequate Hydration: Ensure seniors drink enough water to stay hydrated, even if they may not feel as thirsty during the monsoon season.

3. Food Safety: Educate on proper food storage and hygiene practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Home safety

1. Fall Prevention: Implement safety measures such as installing handrails, avoiding loose rugs, and keeping the house clutter-free to reduce the risk of falls.

2. Water-proofing: Check for leaks and waterproof the house to prevent water seepage and dampness, which can lead to mould and respiratory issues.

3. Mosquito Control: Use mosquito nets and repellents to protect seniors from mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.

Exercise and physical activities:

1. Indoor Workouts: Encourage seniors to engage in indoor exercises like stretching, yoga, or light aerobics to maintain flexibility and strength.

2. Doctor-Approved Activities: Suggest physical activities that are suitable for each senior's health condition, considering any existing ailments.

Mental Health

1. Social Interaction: Facilitate regular social interactions with family members and friends to prevent feelings of isolation and loneliness.

2. Engaging Hobbies: Encourage seniors to pursue hobbies and interests that provide mental stimulation and relaxation.

Caring for senior citizens during the monsoon season requires a combination of preventive measures, health considerations, and safety precautions. Remember, regular medical attention, a balanced diet, a safe home environment, and emotional support are vital components in providing the best care for our senior citizens during this challenging time.

Adapted from Dr. Ambrish Dixit’s article in Internal Medicine on July 31, 2023.