Tuesday, 19 August 2025

Heart-Healthy Nigerian Meals: Low Cholesterol Foods That Support Wellness

At EOON Care, we understand that caring for your heart doesn’t mean giving up the foods you love. In fact, many traditional Nigerian dishes are already rich in nutrients that naturally help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Whether you’re an older adult managing your health or a caregiver supporting a loved one, knowing what foods to prepare can make all the difference. Let’s explore how you can build a cholesterol-friendly plate using affordable, accessible, and familiar Nigerian ingredients.

Nigerian Foods That Naturally Support Heart Health

1. Bitter-leaf Soup (Obe Ewuro / Ofe Onugbo)

A long-time staple in many Nigerian homes, bitter leaf is more than just flavourful—it actively supports healthy cholesterol levels. Studies show that it helps reduce LDL (bad cholesterol), boost HDL (good cholesterol), and lower triglyceride levels.

2. Ewedu (Jute Leaf Soup)

Popular in Yoruba cuisine, Ewedu is rich in antioxidants and dietary fibre. While it may not directly lower cholesterol, it promotes better heart and blood vessel health—an important part of overall cardiovascular care.

3. Unripe Plantain Flour

This low-starch, high-fibre option is excellent for managing both cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Unripe plantain flour can be used for swallows or incorporated into porridge for a filling, heart-healthy meal.

4. Avocado

Commonly available in Nigeria, avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and soluble fibre. They’re excellent for lowering bad cholesterol and increasing the good kind, making them a powerful ally for heart health.

5. Zobo (Unsweetened Hibiscus Drink)

Zobo is a refreshing drink enjoyed across Nigeria. When prepared without added sugar, it supports blood pressure regulation and heart function—ideal for individuals managing cholesterol and hypertension.

6. Fufu (Cassava-based Akpu)

Although cassava is low in cholesterol, fufu also contains potassium, which plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure. It can be part of a balanced meal when paired with vegetable-rich soups.

Everyday Foods That Work for Cholesterol Management

Adding more plant-based and fibre-rich foods to your diet can significantly lower LDL cholesterol. Here are a few Nigerian-friendly options:

Oats & Brown Rice: High in soluble fibre to reduce cholesterol absorption.
Beans & Lentils: Affordable, protein-rich, and excellent for improving heart health.
Okra, Spinach, Eggplant: Local vegetables packed with antioxidants and fibre.
Fruits (Pawpaw, Oranges, Pears): Natural sources of cholesterol-lowering fibre.
Nuts (Groundnuts, Cashews, Walnuts): Healthy fats that balance cholesterol levels.
Oily Fish (Sardines, Mackerel, Tuna): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that lower triglycerides.
Healthy Oils (Vegetable, Olive, Canola): Better alternatives to butter or palm oil.
Soy Products (Tofu, Soy Milk): Great plant-based protein options, especially for older adults seeking alternatives to red meat.

How to Build a Nigerian Low-Cholesterol Plate

Here’s a quick guide to balancing your meals with heart-healthy, accessible Nigerian foods:

Group	Local Options	Why It Helps
Leafy Greens	Bitter-leaf, Ewedu, Spinach	Help lower LDL and improve HDL
Whole Grains	Oats, Brown Rice, Wholegrain Bread	Rich in fibre to reduce cholesterol
Legumes	Beans, Lentils, Chickpeas	Improve satiety, reduce LDL
Fruits	Pawpaw, Oranges, Pears	Provide antioxidants and dietary fibre
Healthy Fats	Avocado, Nuts, Vegetable Oil	Replace saturated fats
Oily Fish	Sardines, Mackerel, Tuna	Provide omega-3s for heart protection
Drinks	Unsweetened Zobo	Supports healthy blood pressure

Final Thoughts from EOON Care

Managing cholesterol levels doesn’t have to feel restrictive or unfamiliar. Many Nigerian meals already offer heart-friendly benefits when prepared mindfully. At EOON Care, we encourage individuals and caregivers to embrace nutritious local foods like bitter-leaf soup, unripe plantains, and avocado—delicious options that support long-term health and vitality.

Whether you are living in Nigeria or supporting a loved one from abroad, our wellness coaches and caregiving professionals are here to guide you with practical, culturally appropriate nutrition advice tailored to elderly care and the management of chronic conditions.

Need help creating a heart-healthy meal plan for a loved one? Reach out to EOON Care’s team for personalised wellness support.

Monday, 18 August 2025

Back to Basics – Self-Care Practices for Caregivers

By Nene Sterling | EOON Care Blog | August 20, 2025

Caregiving is one of the most beautiful gifts of love—but let’s be honest, it’s also one of the most exhausting. Whether you’re supporting a parent in Port Harcourt or juggling your mum’s needs in Manchester, the constant care can take its toll on your body, mind, and spirit.

Today, we’re going back to basics—the core self-care routines every caregiver should have in place to avoid burnout and stay well.

🌿 A True Story: Ifeoma’s Wake-Up Call

Ifeoma, a schoolteacher in Abuja, was taking care of her ageing mother while teaching full-time and managing her household. She thought she could handle it all—until her health gave out.

One day, she collapsed at work from sheer exhaustion.

Her doctor told her what many caregivers need to hear: “You can’t give from an empty cup.”

That moment changed her life. Ifeoma started with small things—drinking more water, sleeping earlier, asking her cousin to help on weekends. Her body recovered, and so did her spirit.

❤️ Why Self-Care Must Be a Priority

From London to Lagos, caregivers often overlook their own needs. A recent UK study found that 72% of family caregivers reported anxiety and fatigue, while in Nigeria, many caregivers suffer silently without emotional or physical support.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s survival.

When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of others—stronger, clearer, and more loving.

🔄 3 Simple Self-Care Habits You Can Start Today

1. The 10-Minute Mental Reset

Take 10 minutes each day to sit quietly. No chores. No screens. Just you and your breath. Whether it’s deep breathing, journaling, or silent prayer, this simple act can reduce anxiety and restore calm.

📝 Try This:
Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, and exhale for 6. Repeat for 5 cycles.

2. Hydrate and Nourish

Caregivers often forget to eat or drink water. Your body needs energy to function—so treat it well!

🍲 Nigerian Tip: Drink zobo (hibiscus) without sugar for a vitamin-rich boost. Eat ugu, fish, beans, and fruits to stay energised.

3. Stay Connected

You need emotional support. Make time for a 15-minute call with a friend or sibling each week. Vent. Laugh. Cry. Talk about you, not just the person you’re caring for.

🤳🏾 UK Tip: Join a WhatsApp support group for caregivers or call the Carers UK helpline for emotional support.

💪 How to Make It Stick

Start small: Pick just one habit this week.
Use reminders: Set alarms or sticky notes.
Celebrate wins: Did you hydrate today? That’s a win!

🎁 Download our FREE Caregiver Wellness Planner to track your habits:
👉 www.eooncare.com

🎉 Join the #CaregiversCareChallenge

We’re inviting YOU to join our #CaregiversCareChallenge this August!

Here’s how:

Choose one basic self-care goal.
Post your progress on social media with the hashtag #CaregiversCareChallenge.
Tag @EOONCare so we can cheer you on!

Let’s create a ripple effect of caregiver wellness across Nigeria and the UK.

🧡 Final Thoughts

Dear caregiver, your health matters. Your peace matters. Going back to the basics isn’t a step back—it’s a powerful leap forward.

You don’t have to do it all. But you do deserve to feel whole.

EOON Care is Here to Help!
We specialise in elder care services to support family bonding and improve the quality of life for your elderly loved ones.

Let EOON Care be part of your family’s journey toward building stronger connections!

📞 Nigeria Office: +234 816 7929 521
📧 Email: info@eooncare.com
🌐 Website: www.eooncare.com

Friday, 15 August 2025

Senior Nutrition Awareness: Nourishing Nigeria's Golden Generation

SENIOR NUTRITION AWARENESS: NOURISHING NIGERIA’S GOLDEN GENERATION

By Testimony – EOON Care Blog | 16 August

As Nigeria’s population of older adults grows, the role of good nutrition in promoting healthy ageing has never been more important. Today, adults aged 60 and above face not just health challenges, but also barriers to accessing the right foods. At EOON Care, we believe that senior nutrition is more than a health concern—it is a social responsibility.

We are committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s golden generation enjoys balanced, culturally appropriate, and affordable meals that support a healthy, dignified life.

UNDERSTANDING SENIORS’ NUTRITIONAL NEEDS

Ageing naturally brings changes to the body—slower metabolism, reduced appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and changes in taste and smell. These factors can lead to deficiencies in key nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, protein, and fibre.

In Nigeria, these challenges are often made worse by:

Limited access to healthcare and nutrition education
Economic constraints that limit food variety
Reliance on unbalanced traditional or processed diets

Poor nutrition in seniors can result in:

Weakened immunity and frequent infections
Muscle loss and fatigue
Increased risk of falls and fractures
Complications in managing chronic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease

THE NIGERIAN REALITY

Many older Nigerians rely on family members or informal caregivers—often without professional guidance on diet and meal planning. In rural areas, meals may lack diversity, while in urban areas, many seniors consume high-calorie, low-nutrient foods.

However, there is hope. Across the country, conversations about senior health are increasing, with communities, caregivers, and organisations recognising the link between nutrition, independence, and dignity.

EOON CARE’S APPROACH

At EOON Care, nutrition is part of our core care philosophy. Whether in our residential Celine Care Centre or through our home care services, we:

Conduct periodic nutritional assessments to prevent malnutrition
Create meal plans designed by nutritionists and adapted to cultural preferences
Blend traditional Nigerian foods with modern nutrition science
Promote communal dining for social connection, while respecting individual preferences
Train caregivers through our UK Care Certificate–aligned programme to understand and meet seniors’ nutrition needsCaregiver Induction Tra…

Our menus highlight local, nutrient-rich staples such as:

Beans for plant-based protein
Leafy vegetables for vitamins and minerals
Fresh fruits for antioxidants
Fish for omega-3 fatty acids
Whole grains for fibre

We also cater to special diets, including diabetic-friendly and heart-healthy options, ensuring no senior is left behind.

MOVING FORWARD – A CALL TO ACTION

Healthy ageing starts with the plate in front of our elders. Every family, community, and caregiver can take steps to improve senior nutrition by:

Offering balanced meals with a variety of food groups
Encouraging hydration
Reducing high-salt, high-sugar, and processed foods
Seeking advice from healthcare professionals on dietary needs

At EOON Care, we stand ready to support families in nourishing their loved ones—not just with food, but with care, respect, and companionship.

References:

Akpa, O.M. & Eze, U.A. (2020). Nutritional status and dietary practices of elderly people in South-Eastern Nigeria. African Health Sciences, 20(1), 45–52.
World Health Organization. (2015). World report on ageing and health. Available at: WHO

Hashtags:
#SeniorNutrition #HealthyAgingNigeria #EoonCare #NourishOurElders #ElderCareNG #NutritionMatters #GoldenYearsWellness #AgeWithDignity #SeniorHealthAwareness #ElderlyCareInNigeria

Tuesday, 12 August 2025

International Youth Day 2025: Empowering Nigeria's Future through Compassionate Connections

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY 2025: EMPOWERING NIGERIA’S FUTURE THROUGH COMPASSIONATE CONNECTIONS

By Susan Omenuko | 12 August 2025

Each year on 12 August, the world comes together to celebrate International Youth Day (IYD)—a day dedicated to recognising the challenges, opportunities, and limitless potential of young people. First declared by the United Nations in 1999, this annual observance calls for stronger youth participation in economic, political, and social life.

In 2025, this call to action feels especially urgent for Nigeria. With one of the largest youth populations in the world—over 60% under the age of 25 (National Bureau of Statistics, 2023)—we stand at a crossroads. Our young people carry within them the promise of innovation, leadership, and nation-building, yet they also face stark realities: rising unemployment, mental health pressures, limited mentorship, and the silent epidemic of social isolation.

This Year’s Theme: Youth Empowerment for Peace and Sustainable Development

The 2025 theme aligns powerfully with EOON Care’s mission to build stronger, more compassionate communities. While EOON Care is well known for its elderly companionship and care servicesEOON CARE booklet DRAFT…, our vision extends across generations. Companionship is not an age-bound need—it is a human one. For many young Nigerians, the absence of meaningful connections can hinder personal growth, emotional stability, and resilience.

Addressing Youth Isolation and Mental Health

Depression, anxiety, and emotional burnout are increasingly common among Nigerian youths, often compounded by stigma and a lack of accessible support systems (World Health Organization, 2023). That’s why EOON Care is extending our companionship services to young adults, students, and job seekers—creating safe spaces for listening, encouragement, and mentorship.

Our structured companionship programmes—delivered in person or virtually—connect young people with supportive role models who guide them through educational challenges, career uncertainty, and personal transitions.

Fostering Intergenerational Dialogue

One of EOON Care’s unique strengths lies in bridging generations. By connecting young people with compassionate adults and retirees, we exchange wisdom, skills, and life lessons that nurture mutual respect. This not only reduces loneliness but also strengthens social cohesion—an essential ingredient for peace and sustainable development.

Creating Youth Employment Opportunities

Our commitment to youth empowerment goes beyond emotional support. EOON Care actively trains and hires young companions through our 17-module, UK Care Certificate–aligned caregiver programme Caregiver Induction Tra…. This equips participants with soft skills, emotional intelligence, and real-world work experience in a caring environment. By doing so, we contribute directly to reducing unemployment and preparing young people for active citizenship and economic participation.

A Call to Action

As we mark International Youth Day 2025, we call on policymakers, NGOs, community leaders, and the private sector to prioritise youth-friendly services and partnerships. Together, we can create opportunities where every young person is valued, supported, and empowered to lead change—today, not just tomorrow.

Youth are not merely the leaders of the future—they are changemakers in the present. By investing in their mental, emotional, and social well-being through initiatives like EOON Care’s companionship programmes, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its young people and build a more united, compassionate, and sustainable society.

References
National Bureau of Statistics (2023) Demographic Statistics Bulletin. Abuja: NBS.
United Nations (2024) International Youth Day. Available at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/youth-day
World Health Organization (2023) Mental Health in Nigeria: Situation Analysis. Geneva: WHO.
EOON Care (2025) About Us. Available at: https://eooncare.com

Hashtags:
#InternationalYouthDay #IYD2025 #YouthEmpowerment #YouthForChange #Eooncare #CompanionshipMatters #MentalHealthSupport #CareWithCompassion #TogetherNotAlone

Friday, 8 August 2025

Activities for Multigenerational Families

ACTIVITIES FOR MULTIGENERATIONAL FAMILIES

By Chidebere – 8 August

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to stay in our own little circles—busy with work, school, or personal commitments—and miss opportunities to connect with those who matter most. But family bonds, especially across generations, are treasures worth nurturing.

The good news? A few simple, shared activities can help you strengthen connections, create lasting memories, and learn from one another. That’s the beauty of multigenerational family activities—they bridge the gap between young and old, helping everyone feel seen, valued, and included.

WHY MULTIGENERATIONAL ACTIVITIES MATTER

In many Nigerian homes, grandparents, parents, and children live together or stay closely connected. Yet, modern life sometimes limits meaningful interaction. These activities:

Foster empathy and understanding between generations.
Preserve family traditions and cultural heritage.
Promote a sense of belonging and support.
Strengthen the emotional well-being of every family member.

FUN ACTIVITIES TO TRY

Storytelling Evenings
Gather in the living room or garden for stories from different life stages—childhood adventures, local folktales, or family history. It’s entertaining, educational, and a powerful way to pass down values.
Cooking Together
Choose a family recipe or try something new. Let Grandma show her special jollof rice technique or encourage the kids to share a dish they’ve learned in school. Cooking together blends teamwork, creativity, and tasty rewards.
Outdoor Bonding
From simple walks around the neighbourhood to a family picnic or light sports, fresh air and shared physical activity are great mood boosters.
Family Game Nights
Mix classic board games and card games with age-friendly digital games. The mix of strategy, luck, and laughter can quickly turn into a cherished tradition.
Skill-Sharing Sessions
Set aside a weekend for learning from each other—knitting, beadwork, basic computer skills, photography, gardening. Every skill shared is a new bridge between generations.

THE NIGERIAN CONNECTION

Our culture has always valued strong family ties. Multigenerational activities not only keep these traditions alive but also promote harmony, understanding, and joy in our communities. They help younger generations learn respect for elders while giving older members fresh energy and purpose.

EOON CARE CONNECTION

At EOON Care, we believe that caring goes beyond health—it’s about connection. Our services, from home visits to residential care at Celine Care Centre, are built on person-centred values that encourage family involvement. Activities like these are part of how we help families stay bonded, even across busy schedules or physical distance.

GET STARTED TODAY

Why not choose one activity this week? Whether it’s sharing a meal, telling stories, or taking a short walk together, you’ll be investing in memories that last a lifetime.

#MultigenerationalFamilies
#FamilyBonding
#EOONCARE
#IntergenerationalRelationships
#FamilyActivities

Tuesday, 5 August 2025

💖 The Role of Family in Caregiving: Why You Shouldn't Do It Alone

Blog by Nene Sterling | EOON Care | August Edition

Caregiving is a labour of love—but no one said you had to do it all by yourself.

Whether you're a daughter caring for your mother in Ibadan or a son managing care from your flat in Birmingham, family should be part of the journey. And when families come together, caregiving becomes not just easier, but more joyful.

💬 Meet the Okechukwus: A Story of Family Resilience

Let’s begin with Amaka Okechukwu’s story, which mirrors thousands across Nigeria and the UK.

Amaka, a schoolteacher in Enugu, became the sole caregiver for her 76-year-old mother after a stroke left Mama bedridden. She was running herself ragged, balancing work, motherhood, and hospital visits with barely any sleep. Her siblings, spread across Lagos, Abuja, and London, offered verbal support but little else.

One day, during a video call, she broke down in tears. That was the turning point.

Her brother in Lagos took charge of Mama’s hospital follow-ups. Her cousin in the UK began sending monthly support to hire an EOON Care nurse. They created a WhatsApp group to update one another, pray, and schedule visits.

It changed everything. Care became a shared experience, not a burden.

📘 Why Family Support is Essential in Caregiving

Caregiving without support often leads to burnout, resentment, and even health issues. According to NICE (UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), collaborative caregiving leads to:

✅ Lower caregiver stress
✅ Better outcomes for the care recipient
✅ Stronger emotional ties within the family

In Nigeria, caregiving often falls on women due to cultural expectations. But caregiving should not be based on gender—it should be based on love, commitment, and teamwork.

Families are more dispersed in the UK, but digital tools and structured plans can bridge the gap.

🛠️ 3 Practical Ways to Involve Family in Caregiving

1. Host a Family Care Meeting

Whether it’s in your living room or over Zoom, communicate clearly. Share the realities: What does caregiving look like day-to-day? Where do you need help? Then assign roles based on each person’s strength—whether it's financial support, shopping, or providing emotional check-ins.

2. Create a Caregiver Schedule

Use shared Google calendars or simple paper charts to divide tasks. A sibling can take over weekend bathing routines. A cousin can call weekly for emotional support. A nephew might be responsible for pharmacy runs. Every role counts.

3. Ask for Help—And Accept It

This one is especially hard for independent caregivers. But asking isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Be specific: “Can you handle hospital visits this month?” or “I need two days off; can you stay with Dad?”

🌍 Family Care Across Borders: Nigeria & the UK

In Nigeria, respect for elders and communal caregiving is deep-rooted—but as urbanisation increases, caregiving often becomes fragmented. That's where EOON Care steps in—to provide trained caregivers and backup support when families need it most.

In the UK, long-distance caregiving is common. Siblings in Manchester may coordinate care for an ageing parent in Ogun State. What helps? Technology: WhatsApp groups, care portals, online banking, and remote monitoring tools.

❤️ A Stronger Family, A Better Care Journey

The truth is, caregiving is not just a duty—it’s a chance to reconnect, heal wounds, and strengthen bonds. When your family rallies around a loved one, you're not just providing care—you're creating legacy.

📣 Call to Action: Let’s Start the Conversation

How does your family handle caregiving?

📝 Share your story with us using the hashtag #FamilyCareMatters on Instagram or Facebook @EOONCare. You might inspire another caregiver to open up and ask for help.

🎁 Need help setting up family care systems? Download our FREE Caregiver Planning Resources at www.eooncare.com.

🧾 EOON Care is Here to Help!

We specialise in elder care services tailored to the needs of Nigerian and UK families—whether you need trained nurses, companionship services, or a wellness consultation.

Let EOON Care be part of your family’s caregiving journey.

📞 Nigeria Office: +234 816 7929 521
📧 Email: info@eooncare.com
🌐 Website: www.eooncare.com

Remember: It’s not about doing it all. It’s about doing it together. 💙

Friday, 1 August 2025

Benefits of At-Home Care vs Nursing Homes

BENEFITS OF AT-HOME CARE VS NURSING HOMES

By Sorchi – 1 August

INTRODUCTION

Choosing between at-home care and a nursing home for an elderly loved one is one of the most important decisions a family can make. It impacts their comfort, dignity, and overall well-being. In this blog, we explore the benefits of each option, with a focus on why at-home care can be the ideal choice—especially within Nigeria’s family-centred culture.

BENEFITS OF AT-HOME CARE

1. A Familiar and Comfortable Setting
At-home care allows your loved one to remain in the comfort of their own home. Being surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and memories can ease stress, promote relaxation, and improve emotional well-being.

2. Preserving Dignity and Independence
With home care, older adults can maintain control over their daily routines—when to eat, what to wear, and how to spend their time. This sense of autonomy is essential for self-esteem and dignity.

3. Stronger Family Connection
Home care makes it easier for family members to remain actively involved. Whether it’s regular visits, shared meals, or virtual check-ins, these interactions help maintain emotional bonds and ensure care remains consistent.

BENEFITS OF NURSING HOMES

1. 24/7 Professional Support
Nursing homes provide round-the-clock access to trained healthcare staff, including nurses and doctors. This is particularly helpful for those with complex medical needs.

2. Social Interaction and Community
Care homes offer opportunities for residents to engage in group activities, make new friends, and enjoy a sense of belonging within a community.

RELEVANCE IN NIGERIA

In Nigeria, caring for elders is deeply rooted in tradition. Many families prefer to provide care within the home, which aligns with the principles of at-home care. However, urban living, career demands, and smaller household sizes can make constant caregiving challenging.

EOON Care bridges this gap by offering flexible home care services—from companionship visits to 24/7 live-in support—ensuring loved ones receive dignified, personalised care without losing their family connection. For those who need round-the-clock monitoring in a safe environment, our Celine Care Centre offers the comfort of home with professional oversight.

CONCLUSION

Both at-home care and nursing homes have unique benefits. For many Nigerian families, at-home care provides the best of both worlds—comfort, dignity, and family closeness. With EOON Care’s person-centred approach, families can choose the right solution that supports their loved one’s health, happiness, and cultural values.

#AtHomeCare #NursingHomes #ElderlyCare #EOONCare #NigeriaCare #DignityInCare #FamilyCare #CareSolutions #HealthcareInNigeria

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