Colon cancer is a strain of cancer that begins in the large intestine. While it can occur at any age, it is most prevalent in those who are 50 years old or older. It often begins with small benign polyps that form on the colon and then become cancerous over time. These polyps usually provide few symptoms until they become cancerous, but there are things your aging parent can do to prevent the polyps from forming, as well as to monitor her colon health.
- If your parent is over the age of 50, she should be receiving regular colon screening.
Her doctor will help her determine what kind of screening she needs and how often she needs it based on her health and family history. If a colonoscopy is recommended, you’ll need to help her find a ride to and from the appointment – a senior care provider can help if needed.
- Your parent should eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
These items contain vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which may play an important part in cancer prevention. The next time your parent goes shopping with her senior care provider, they should search for a variety of fruits and vegetables so that your parent can get an array of vitamins and nutrients in her diet. - Your parent should stop smoking.
Smoking increases the risk of getting colon cancer. If your parent is still smoking, have her speak to her doctor about the best ways to quit completely. - Your parent should limit the amount of red meat consumed.
Red meats (such as beef, pork, and lamb) and processed meats (such as hot dogs, sausage, and lunch meats) have shown to increase colon cancer risk. Eliminate these from her diet or restrict them to very infrequent treats. - Your parent should exercise regularly.
Regular exercise of at least 30 minutes a day has many health benefits, including lowering one’s risk of developing cancers such as colon cancer. If your parent is able, she should look for exercise that varies in intensity and activity to get the best health benefits. Have your parent check with her physician to find the best exercise program for her. - Your parent should keep her weight at a healthy level.
Obese individuals have a higher chance of getting colon cancer (this is especially true for men). If your parent needs to lose some weight, again, talk with her regular physician about a good way to start to pursue this goal. Losing weight is a different process for seniors because she’ll need to be really careful about not losing muscle in the process. - Your parent should not drink much alcohol.
Although alcohol consumption for men creates more risk than women, it is a good idea for your parent to not drink alcohol when she is trying to prevent colon cancer if she has a family history of it or other factors. One drink per day for women should be the most she should have if she enjoys alcohol, or she can save it for special occasions only.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Senior Care Lake Grove, NY please contact the caring staff at Karing Hearts Agency Corp. today. (631)366-KARE(5273)
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/symptoms-causes/s