Elder Care Advice For Understanding How Caffeine Affects Seniors
Seniors and Caffeine: Elder Care Alexandria VA
Most people enjoy waking up to a cup of coffee, but too much caffeine is not great for your senior loved one’s body. As your mom or dad ages, they may become more sensitive to caffeine. Luckily, tons of beverages are hot and have the same flavors as bold coffee or the same heat they crave in the morning. They can opt for a nice cup of tea or decaffeinated coffee in the morning. Here are some reasons caffeine is not the best choice for your loved one and how you and their elder care team can help them eliminate the habit.
Caffeine Can Cause Higher Rates of Anxiety
Although caffeine is technically considered safe, if your loved one already suffers from anxiety or depression, they should avoid this drink. Coffee or any type of caffeine can lead to more jitters and increased anxiety. Coffee is a central nervous system stimulant, which is why for some people, it raises an already anxious mind.
In some individuals, especially those sensitive to caffeine, high doses can lead to symptoms like restlessness, rapid heartbeat, jitteriness, and increased anxiety, as caffeine can trigger the release of stress hormones like adrenaline.
So, if they’re drinking coffee and their fight or flight response becomes heightened, it could be a good sign that they should stop drinking coffee in the morning. The way a senior starts the day can set the tone for the whole day, so it’s important to have a routine that works well for them. If they need help waking up, getting dressed, and getting their day started, it’s time to find elder care to help them with everyday things.
It Is Habit Forming
Believe it or not, caffeine is addictive and something no one generally talks about. Once you start drinking coffee every morning, it can be exceptionally hard to stop this habit, which is why your loved one may continue to do it, even when it’s not very good for them. Caffeine is considered addictive because it stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, in the brain’s reward pathways.
Over time, repeated exposure to caffeine can lead to changes in the brain’s chemistry and structure, resulting in tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when caffeine intake is reduced or stopped, reinforcing the cycle.
If your loved one is having difficulty quitting caffeine, they should talk to their doctor to find out how they can do this. Once you figure out what they can do and find practical tips, elder care can help them follow through. Find other alternatives like hot cocoa, tea, or decaf options. This will allow them to stick with the routine but limit their caffeine amount.
Coffee Can Cause High Blood Pressure
Having high blood pressure is disastrous for a senior. Caffeine, a key component in coffee, is a stimulant that can temporarily raise blood pressure by stimulating the release of adrenaline. This effect can cause a short-term increase in blood pressure, especially in individuals sensitive to caffeine. Still, it tends to be temporary and diminishes as the body metabolizes caffeine. However, if your senior is having a hard time metabolizing things, this could be really bad for your senior’s health. Overall, it is crucial to know your body and how it will react to things.