The Importance of Healthy Eating
Incorporating a balance of good, healthy food choices into a daily meal plan for our elders and those who are immobile or recovering from an operation is essential. We know our older adult friends and relatives are into their usual eating routines and don’t like change, but important healthy food options need to be incorporated into their daily life as they are at a greater risk of chronic health issues and changes in muscle mass and bone density. Healthy eating for everyone not just our elders is not just about weight maintenance, it has so many benefits like brain function, releasing energy levels and helping to regulate the body’s systems.
Snacks – Important healthy food options
All of us, not just our elders benefit from eating one or two healthy snacks per day. These snacks stabilise blood sugar levels between meals, can prevent overeating, and keep our energy and brain function energy consistently at a good level. Snacking on fruits and low carb/sugar snacks is easy nowadays. If people are not a fruit fan then their are lots of low sugar savoury snacks available instead of crisps and processed foods like pastries.. Many supermarkets are now stocking more natural snacks like a variety of nuts, vegetable chips, dried fruits and sugar free buscuits to enjoy with a nice cup of tea or coffee with no taste loss.
- Citrus fruits, Sliced oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to boost immunity and fight off infection.
- Unsalted nuts, Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pistachios are great heart-healthy options that keep fresh for a while and need no prep.
- Cottage cheese or lean ham , Enjoy a great source of protein and calcium that can be paired with whole grain crackers to be more filling, or with an added spoonful of jam or berries for flavor.
- Smoothies, Get the combined benefits of fresh fruits and yogurt, while sneaking in some nutritious add-ins that are easily disguised. Try spinach, avocado, protein powder, and wheat germ for added nutritional value.
Eat with Company
In our experience we know it can be a chore preparing a meal just for one, especially if you are elderly as you just won`t bother with nutrients, you will make something easy and quick instead of thinking about important healthy food options. Many of our clients rely on our carers to be there and prepare meals to share. This ensures meal times can be enjoyed rather than dreaded. If our carers are not there at all meal times they do prepare things that are easy to heat up, or simply take out of the fridge. It’s worth looking into if there is a local community group where people can enjoy a low priced meal or snacks with others. Socialising and food go together, so it’s a winner all round.
Hydration
We are all guilty of getting thirsty later than we should. Even if it’s cold outside we all need water/healthy fluid so we don’t get dehydrated. Older adults don’t always notice when they get thirsty, putting them at risk of dehydration. Our carers and part of our caring for people at home policy is to always make sure our clients are consuming healthy fluids on a regular basis, which ideally should be at least six to eight tumbler glasses throughout the day. While sugary drinks are not recommended, elders can also keep hydrated by drinking natural juices, tea, and even soup (especially good in the colder months).
Dealing with a lack of appetite
Age changes the way we eat and we can even go off certain foods we used to like. The body can make us feel fuller sooner than we normally would and some people can feel bored half way through a meal, especially if they are on certain medication. If food becomes unappealing to a client it’s time to think of flavours and textures. If able our carers will take a client to the supermarket for some stimulation, or even show images online.
The most important aspect of meal times is for our elderly or immobile adults to enjoy it!