Like many of the neurodegenerative diseases that affect millions of Americans, Parkinson’s Disease is still largely misunderstood, and researchers are constantly looking for new ways to better understand, treat, and prevent the disease. Recently, researchers have found that preventing the onset of Parkinson’s may be as simple as having your morning cup of coffee and a cinnamon roll—at least for some people.

Researchers in Sweden recently found a molecular explanation for the fact that increased caffeine intake has been linked to a lowered risk for Parkinson’s, while a study conducted at the Rush University Medical Center has found that cinnamon can reverse the changes that occur in the brains of mice with Parkinson’s Disease. Both of these studies are part of the ongoing struggle to find new drugs and treatments to protect the brain against Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, and to treat the symptoms of those living with the disease.

Parkinson’s affects about 1.2 million patients in the U.S. and Canada, including 1 in every 100 people over the age of 60. Fortunately, Parkinson’s care in Overland Park-or anywhere else—advances every day thanks to studies like the ones mentioned above, sometimes through something as simple as a cup of coffee.

As any dedicated coffee drinker knows, coffee is good for more than just Parkinson’s Disease. Because it’s rich in antioxidants, coffee offers a variety of salutary qualities to coffee drinkers of all ages, and research has shown that drinking several cups of coffee a day can have wide ranging health benefits for seniors, especially. In addition increasing memory and motor skills, moderate coffee consumption has been tied to a decreased risk of skin cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, and can also be used to help prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s.

Coffee is also good for your mood, and not just as a temporary pick-me-up. Research suggests several mental health benefits that come with regular coffee consumption, and according to the Harvard School of Public Health, drinking coffee can decrease your risk of suicide by about 50%. Previous studies have linked coffee consumption to a decreased risk for depression.

Part of the reason for coffee’s mental health benefits have nothing to do with the drink itself, though, and everything to do with the act of drinking it. That daily cup or two of coffee promotes a general sense of well-being, and encourages conversation and socializing. Having a cup of coffee with friends and family can help you connect and make everyone feel right at home.

At SeniorCare Homes, every guest is offered a cup of coffee when they visit, and our residents enjoy coffee as much for stimulation as a great way to relax and share conversation around the table. When it comes to Parkinson’s care in Overland Park—or whatever other care you or your loved ones may need—we know the importance of feeling comfortable and safe, which is why our unique homes are designed and managed to feel like home, complete with that first cup of coffee in the morning.