Staying evergreen - the benefits of coenzyme Q10 for the elderly

Heart disease and chronic illnesses can impact anyone's quality of life. However, elderly individuals are particularly susceptible to the life-altering effects of physical illnesses. Suffering from a heart condition, or other chronic diseases can severely impact physical mobility, and the ability to carry out day-to-day functions in ageing people. Consequently, this could lead to feelings of despair and helplessness. It's clear that the senior-most members of our society pay the biggest price for health conditions.

Today, we explore how coenzyme supplementation can help the elderly regain control of their life and wellness.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential molecule found in each and every cell of our body. As a crucial component of our energy production mechanism, it is responsible for keeping the cells working optimally. Without CoQ10, our cells would cease to function.

Though CoQ10 is naturally produced in the body, the levels begin to rapidly deplete after the age of 40. This decline is exacerbated in heart patients, especially those who are on cholesterol-lowering drugs. Given the incidence of heart disease in the country, a significant number of elderly individuals fall under these overlapping categories in India.

CoQ10 deficiency can leave the body exposed to increased risk of heart disease, cause chronic fatigue, and accelerate damage and degeneration of cells. In the elderly already suffering from a heart condition, a deficiency of CoQ10 can be especially debilitating.

The decrease of CoQ10 production in the body after a certain age is inevitable. This is where supplementation plays an important part in ensuring that necessary levels of this molecule are maintained in the body.

Supplementation has specific benefits for the elderly:

- An external source of CoQ10 can replenish the levels necessary for healthy heart function. This can help lower inflammation in heart muscles, and reduce the risk of recurring heart conditions like arrhythmia and hypertension.

- CoQ10 deficiency can result in cellular damage and slowing down of energy production in the body. Supplementation restores energy levels in the elderly, and eliminates weakness and fatigue.

- Elderly individuals are at a greater risk of being immune-comprised, and vulnerable to opportunistic infections and illnesses. CoQ10 reinvigorates weakened cells, and bolsters the immune system.

- Studies have shown CoQ10 to be beneficial towards slowing down the onset of neurodegenerative disorders associated with ageing like Dementia, Parkinson's disease, and cognitive decline.

Including a CoQ10 supplement in the diet of elderly individuals can be a part of a long-term strategy to maintain heart health, and improve general physical and mental wellness. The elderly are not just vulnerable to certain physical conditions. At a certain age, diminished physical capabilities can result in isolation and anxiety. CoQ10 not only keeps chronic conditions at bay, but also rejuvenates the elderly with the energy levels to enjoy an active, fulfilling life. A CoQ10 supplement enhanced with Piperine is particularly recommended, because of increased bio-availability and efficacy.

Age no longer has to mean vulnerability, and ageing shouldn't take away from the ability to enjoy life to the fullest. A healthy heart and a healthy body can remove the barriers of age, and it is our collective duty as a society to empower our most valuable members on their journey towards good health.