By 2040, it’s predicted that a staggering 1.4million individuals in the UK will be living with dementia, causing the cost of care to skyrocket to an eye-watering £90billion in that year – more than double the £42billion that was projected for 2024. Tragically, this is a reality that families across the UK are already grappling with. So, is there anything that can be done to have a better quality of life?
Alderberry Care, experts in live-in care, suggest that diet could be one of the most straightforward ways to bolster brain health, particularly for older individuals keen on maintaining their independence for as long as possible. While there’s no known cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, Dr Charles J Duffy – director of University Hospitals Neurological Institute’s Brain Health and Memory Center – believes that consuming the right foods and keeping the mind active could potentially delay or even stave off the onset of symptoms.
Eggs
Eggs, a potent source of choline which bolsters memory and brain function, come highly recommended by Rudolph E. Tanzi of Mass General Brigham’s McCance Center for Brain Health.
Whether scrambled, boiled or stirred into soups, eggs are not only easy to prepare and soft to chew but also an economical protein choice for many elderly individuals.
Colourful fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables boasting vibrant hues are chock-full of carotenoids, the pigments responsible for their red, orange, and yellow colours. Research indicates that higher levels of carotenoids are associated with improved brain health and a reduced risk of dementia. Elderly Brits can easily incorporate this into their meals by opting for carrots, peppers, tomatoes, and leafy greens.
Legumes and berries
Beans, lentils and chickpeas, rich in fibre and plant protein, help maintain blood sugar levels, thereby promoting overall brain health. When paired with antioxidant-rich berries, known to reduce brain inflammation, they make a powerful combination.
A simple lentil stew followed by a handful of frozen blueberries or blackberries can be an affordable and nutritious meal for older households.
Flavonoid-rich foods
Individuals consuming the highest quantities of flavonoid-packed foods — approximately six servings daily — demonstrated a 28% reduced likelihood of developing dementia throughout the research timeframe when compared with those consuming minimal amounts.
These beneficial compounds can be discovered in produce including apples, onions, dark chocolate, and green tea.
For elderly individuals, substituting a biscuit with a piece of dark chocolate or opting for green tea during evening hours can deliver modest yet significant advantages.
Whole grains
A 2023 study discovered a strong correlation between whole grain consumption and a reduced risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. For the elderly, a simple switch from white bread to wholemeal could be a good starting point.
However, the challenge lies in identifying truly whole grain breads, cereals and pastas amidst the myriad options available.
Pro tip: Look out for packaging that mentions whole wheat or whole oats as the primary ingredient.
An Alderberry Care spokesperson shares: “When we support the elderly, diet is one of the most powerful tools we have. We see better mood, steadier routines and sharper memory when colourful fruit, whole grains and simple protein are included in meals. Families often notice the difference within weeks.”
Vibrant produce, eggs, pulses, wholemeal grains and flavonoid-abundant foods aren’t magical remedies, yet they can offer the brain its optimal opportunity to remain robust. Families can assist the elderly by organising meals, shopping wisely, and preparing food in batches.