Bladder cancer is one of the most common causes of death, and over 8,700 Canadians are diagnosed with this disease every year. This type of cancer is often caused by lifestyle choices and environmental factors, which can also affect a senior’s quality of life.
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust in Oakville, ON, home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life. Here are five tips seniors should use to reduce their risk of bladder cancer.
1. Stop Smoking
Smoking can increase a senior’s risk of bladder cancer, as it suppresses the immune system and forces the body to repair the lungs. A 2016 study conducted at the University of Victoria found that using e-cigarettes is relatively safer than smoking, and it can help people curb their cravings. Seniors can also speak with their doctors about other treatment options such as nicotine gum, patches, and shots.
2. Test the Drinking Water
Drinking water is vital for health, but it is a good idea for seniors to have their water sources tested at least once every few months. Testing kits can be purchased at home improvement stores, and these kits can identify most of the contaminants that increase the risk of bladder cancer. Many water filters are effective at removing lead and other dangerous contaminants.
3. Avoid Dehydration
Increasing fluid intake is another simple way for seniors to lower their risk of bladder cancer and other serious health conditions. Many doctors believe chronic dehydration leads to bladder irritation that causes pain and inflammation. While these symptoms don’t directly cause bladder cancer, they can make it difficult for the body’s immune system to fight the cancerous cells. On average, seniors should try to drink eight or more full cups of water per day.
4. Eat Meat without Additives
Red meat is high in saturated fat, and it also raises cholesterol levels, which increases the risk of bladder cancer. Most cured meats contain nitrites, which are now classified as carcinogens. When choosing meats, stick to products that contain little or no additives. If you’re preparing meals for your loved one, make sure not to add red meat or cured meat.
If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Oakville seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
5. Consume More Vegetables
Seniors who are worried about bladder cancer should add more fresh produce to their diets. Leafy greens are especially beneficial for older adults who do not get enough vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants are a class of nutrients that attack cancerous cells, and they can be found in leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, sweet potatoes, carrots, and citrus fruits.
Managing cognitive decline while living with cancer can be challenging for seniors and their caregivers. The onset of Alzheimer’s and its symptoms can be difficult for seniors to manage without the help of professional home caregivers. Seniors with Alzheimer’s have much to gain when their families opt for professional Alzheimer’s care. Oakville, ON, families can rely on compassionate and dedicated caregivers to help their elderly loved ones manage the various challenges of Alzheimer’s disease so they can enjoy a higher quality of life. To create a customized Alzheimer’s care plan for your senior loved one, call Home Care Assistance at (905) 337-1200 today.