How To Support Healthy Eating For Seniors

We all need to choose healthy foods, but it is especially important for some older people. Appetites and the sense of taste can decrease over time. The challenge of preparing meals can seem just too much for people who have limited mobility and balance issues.

Diet is another area where elder care caregivers can help a great deal in improving not only nutrition but the basic quality of life. No one wants to eat food that is uninteresting or unattractive, so it's especially important to make meals colorful and tasty as well as nutritious and easy to eat.

How do you make meals that are tasty as well as nutritious and easy to eat? Here are some tips to help you:

1. Keep snacks healthy and fun. Eating small amounts between meals can help keep energy levels up and provide variety in a balanced diet. For snacks, try some of these:

a. Raw vegetables like carrots and celery keep well in plastic bags. Dip carrots in low-fat salad dressing, or add a bit of peanut butter to the celery.

b. Fresh fruit or dried fruit like raisins.

c. A handful of nuts or trail mix, always taking into consideration any food allergies or diet restrictions.

d. A smoothie made with nonfat milk or yogurt and fruit.

e. A few crackers topped with cheese.

2. Stock the pantry with foods that have a good shelf life so you're ready with variety and healthy choices. Think of canned tuna, rice, tomato sauce, soup. Also, think of herbs and spices - they last a long time and can add zest to a meal without extra salt.

3. Use your frozen assets. Frozen vegetables are handy when you need a quick boost for soups and stews. Frozen fruits like berries and melon - partially thawed - make a good dessert over a slice of angel food cake with a dollop of whipped topping.

4. Mix things up - have breakfast for dinner. An omelet with vegetables, a little meat, or cheese, and maybe a spoonful of pasta sauce on top can be a welcome change.

5. Take advantage of take-out. Sometimes a person just wants a taste of pizza or a chicken wing. It's not something to do all the time, but carryout food can be a treat. Just save leftovers and recycle them. Pizza cut into smaller pieces can be reheated for a snack. Leftover chicken can be lunch, or the meat can be combined with vegetables and pasta or rice for a flavorful stir-fry.

Maintaining the quality of life and the pleasure in living are two of the important goals of caregiving. Food is basic to both. At Dubols, we understand the importance of making sure all your loved one's needs are met with compassionate care.

To learn more about Dubols' Elder Care services, visit our web site at www.Dubols.com, or call (301) 497-8968 for a complimentary in-home assessment. Dubols is committed to excellence in elder care, for we know that your loved one's health blossoms with tender care.