Aging adults are at risk for bladder cancer, as more than 90 percent of all cases occur in people over the age of 55. Genetics and lifestyle choices are major risk factors for bladder cancer, and men are more likely to get this form of cancer than women. Making a few lifestyle changes may help your senior loved one prevent bladder cancer.
1. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking water is essential for good health, and staying hydrated can get difficult with age. While there’s no conclusive evidence that drinking water can prevent bladder cancer, it does flush harmful toxins out of the bladder.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care service. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Avoid Toxic Chemicals
Some everyday products contain compounds that can lead to bladder cancer. If your loved one has a history of working with industrial dyes, rubber, textiles, paint, leather, and chemicals, he or she may be at risk. However, hair dye, arsenic found in drinking water, and some home paints can also increase the risk of bladder cancer. Make sure your loved one is cautious when working with any type of chemical and avoids exposure if possible. For example, have your loved one’s water tested for trace amounts of arsenic. If it contains arsenic, encourage your loved one to drink bottled water instead.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for lung and esophageal cancer. Research suggests smoking is also responsible for up to 50 percent of cases of bladder cancer. If your loved one smokes, help him or her quit. Talk to a doctor about special programs if quitting becomes difficult.
4. Eat Plenty of Fruits & Vegetables
A healthy diet might prevent several forms of cancer, including bladder cancer. Make sure your loved one eats a variety of fruits and vegetables, particularly those rich in antioxidants. Some fruits and vegetables to add to your loved one’s diet include kale, blueberries, pomegranates, grapes, spinach, Brussels sprouts, red bell peppers, onions, broccoli, beets, and eggplant.
A home caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare nutritious meals. 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 Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of respite care. Fort Lauderdale seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.
5. Keep the Bladder Healthy
Some doctors believe people with bladder infections or irritations are at risk for bladder cancer. If your loved one experiences frequent infections or has a family history of bladder cancer, take him or her to regular checkups and have the infections treated as necessary. The key to treating bladder cancer is to detect it in its early stages. Some medications, including chemo drugs, can increase the risk of bladder cancer. Make sure you know about the side effects and potential risks of all medications your loved one takes.
If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Fort Lauderdale families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. Call Assisting Hands Home Care today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.