July is National Blueberry Month, where people across the country celebrate blueberries during their peak harvest time. When it comes to celebrating food, blueberries may not immediately come to mind. However, the more you learn about this nutritious little berry, the more you’ll agree that it should certainly take center stage in any dish.

If you are a family caregiver and you want to add more nutrients to your elderly loved one’s diet, consider incorporating more blueberries.

Blueberry Basics

Blueberries are related to cranberries and go by the scientific name of Vaccinium Cyanococcus. They are often called a superfood, which has come to mean a food that provides multiple health benefits and very few unhealthy ones. North America produces almost all the world’s blueberries and they are one of the most popular fruits in the United States.

National Blueberry Month coincides with the blueberry’s peak harvest time in the US and many communities with agricultural ties to blueberries hold festivals and celebrations in its honor. If you or an elderly care provider prepare meals for your elderly loved one, make sure to include blueberries every chance you get, whether it’s National Blueberry Month or not.

Seniors Can Benefit From More Blueberries

As a family caregiver, it can be difficult for you or their elderly care provider to get an aging adult to eat enough fruits and vegetables. Blueberries pack a nutritional punch and deliver lots of vitamins and minerals that can help them stay healthy. Blueberries contain a lot of vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, manganese, and iron. They are also full of antioxidants and fiber, both of which are extremely good for the body.

When an elderly person’s diet includes healthy fruits like blueberries, they are more likely to lose weight and increase brain health. Blueberries are also linked to fighting cancer, relieve inflammation and improve digestion. Even the heart benefits from more blueberries on the dinner plate. Family caregivers and elderly care providers should not overlook blueberries and other fresh fruit in meals and snacks for seniors.

Adding Blueberries to Meals

There are lots of ways to enjoy blueberries during National Blueberry Month and beyond. Elderly care providers can serve them to your elderly loved one plain as a sweet snack or add them on top of yogurt, ice cream, cereal and oatmeal. Blueberries are a perfect addition to pancakes, waffles, muffins and cookies, too. A classic blueberry pie or blueberry tart is the perfect summer dessert. They also blend well in smoothies and parfaits. Because blueberries are soft and easy to chew, they are perfect for even the pickiest elderly adult.

If you need ideas and inspiration, the internet is full of ways to incorporate blueberries into your aging loved one’s meals. Talk it over with your elderly relative and their home care provide to ensure that there are plenty of blueberries in the house, especially during National Blueberry Month.

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring Elderly Care in St. Petersburg, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.