Eating a healthy diet is essential to nourish the body with the nutrients it needs to function properly.
But healthy eating can become more challenging with aging. That’s because taste buds change, dental health deteriorates, meal preparation becomes more difficult, and some medications can steal appetite.
It’s no surprise that older adults are more susceptible to malnutrition. And when they are malnourished, they become more vulnerable to falls, hospitalizations, re-hospitalizations, and death.
But changing this reality is possible with adequate food planning. Here are some tips to help your loved one:
Nutrition needs
- Eat a variety of foods from each food group.
- Choose foods with little to no added sugar, saturated fats, and sodium.
- Get enough protein throughout the day. Good options include cottage cheese, ricotta, eggs, tuna, and chicken.
- Try fortified foods such as cereals, or talk to your doctor about taking a B12 supplement.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid sugary drinks.
- Season foods with herbs and lemon juice. Try to reduce sodium intake.
- Choose healthy snacks such as chopped fruits and vegetables.
Meal planning tips
- Plan your meals in advance – create a shopping list to help you stick to a budget and consider preparation time and nutrients.
- Incorporate soups and smoothies – they provide fluids, are nutrient-dense, rich in fiber, and easy to eat.
- Be practical – fill your freezer with individual meals that require no more effort than heating them in the microwave.
We are here to assist you in ensuring your loved one consumes nourishing meals during recovery. Reach out to us for support 301-818-0044
References
- National Institute on Aging. Healthy Meal Planning: Tips for Older Adults.
- AARP. Meal Planning for an Older Adult at Home.
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