As people age, paying attention to what we need to eat is more important than ever. This is especially true for older people, whose bodies change in ways that make it harder for them to receive nutrients. When caring for an older person, having in-home care support can help loved ones know the basics of nutritional eating for seniors and how to help them get what they need.

Building Blocks of Nutrition

To learn the basics of nutrition for seniors, the first step is to know what their bodies need. The body needs fewer calories but the same amount or even more nutrients with age. This means that older people should try to eat foods high in vitamins and minerals but low in calories.

Calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and fiber are some of the most essential foods for seniors. Calcium and vitamin D are necessary for healthy bones, which are more important as they age. Vitamin B12 is vital to keeping nerves healthy, and fiber helps digestion and can help keep stay regular. Ensuring seniors get enough of these essential nutrients can be challenging, especially if they’re on a special diet or have trouble chewing or eating. To help with these problems, working with an in-home care provider to make a meal plan that meets the senior’s nutritional needs and considers any dietary restrictions or preferences is important.

Aside from focusing on foods high in nutrients, it’s also important to watch how much seniors eat. Seniors often don’t eat as much as they did when they were younger for various reasons. Loved ones can encourage them to eat smaller meals more often during the day to ensure they get all the nutrients they need without overeating. This is another area that the in-home care aid can help as they can provide suggestions for healthy snacks or smaller meals.

Hydration Is Key

To help seniors keep a healthy diet, it’s also important to remind them to drink enough water. Seniors can have trouble with dehydration because they may not feel thirsty even when they are. The in-home care team can gently remind them to drink throughout the day to keep them from dehydrating and ensure they get the fluids they need to stay healthy.

Encourage Physical Exercise

Lastly, it’s important to remember that eating well is only one part of a senior’s health. Helping them stay physically busy, get enough rest, and remain social can all improve their health and well-being. With home care assistance, seniors can be encouraged to walk around the block or do some other form of exercise in the home. The in-home care team can also provide transportation to group classes or the gym.

Knowing the basics of nutrition for seniors is important to help them eat well and stay healthy. Seniors can stay healthy and active well into their golden years if they pay attention to nutrient-dense foods, portion sizes, staying hydrated, and general health. Also, loved ones should work with a doctor and in-home care to make a meal plan that meets their nutritional needs and considers any dietary restrictions or preferences. With the right help and direction, seniors can live a healthy, happy life for a long time.

If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home care in Allen, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX  today. Call (469) 596-6500

HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.

Source 1 / Source 2 / Source 3