You’re worried about your dad’s stress. Studies have found that chronic stress damages the body in multiple ways. Dr. Elissa Epel of the University of California and Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn, a Nobel Prize winner, have been studying the effects of stress on the body. One of the biggest discoveries is that stress does affect a certain part of the chromosomes that deal with how cells age. With chronic stress, the enzymes that help cells repair themselves dwindles and causes the cells to die or become unhealthy.
Diseases and Conditions Linked to Chronic Stress
One of the biggest risks of chronic stress is cardiovascular disease. Stress causes a stronger, more rapid heart rate. As stress increases and the heart works harder, blood pressure can increase. Inflammation of the arteries in the heart is another risk.
The body’s reaction to stress is to release extra cortisol and epinephrine. This triggers the liver to release additional glucose, thus raising blood sugar levels. The increase in blood sugars can lead to diabetes.
With chronic stress, your dad may find his muscles tense up. Once stress eases, muscles will loosen back up, but chronic stress may lead to frequent migraines, neck pain, and constant muscle pain over time. The muscle tension can become painful and make it harder for him to get up and move around.
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health studied more than 1,300 adults. The study involved stress and cognitive function. Their findings and the findings of a 2015 Alzheimer’s Disease and Associated Disorders study did find that high levels of stress increase the risk of cognitive impairment.
What Can You Do to Help?
Stress is hard to avoid, but there are tools your dad can use to help ease stress. Going outside for a daily walk eases stress. Fitness programs like Tai Chi and Yoga are also beneficial at fighting stress. If mobility is a problem, Chair Yoga will help.
Get your dad involved in a hobby. It can be as easy as spending an hour each day reading a book or going outside and gardening. Having a hobby can help with stress relief.
Make sure your dad is eating properly. A healthy diet helps with stress. Your dad should limit caffeine, or he can avoid it completely if possible. He should also avoid rich, oily foods and focus on high-fiber foods and lots of vegetables. Foods rich in B vitamins and vitamin C are ideal.
Talk to a home care services agency about things you can do to ease your dad’s stress. Having a caregiver available to for companionship can ease stress. Call our home care services agency now to learn more.
Sources: http://www.apa.org/monitor/2014/10/chronic-stress.aspx
http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/stress-body.aspx
http://www.health.com/alzheimers/stressful-events-cause-brain-aging
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Home Care Services in Allentown PA or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
- Diagnosing Hearing Issues: What Tests Does an Audiologist Do? - December 4, 2023
- Celebrating Milestones: Birthdays, Anniversaries, and New Additions! - November 28, 2023
- Things Seniors Should Do Daily To Stay Physically Fit - November 14, 2023
