Home Care in Largo FL

Older adults who have decided to age in place often find themselves eating alone. The problem with this is the fact that many of these seniors are not eating the nutrients their bodies need when they are preparing a meal for one. A survey was conducted by the Union Institute in Cincinnati to determine how many were at risk for malnutrition. Out of the 901 respondents who were reportedly at risk for malnutrition, 850 ate alone. Instead of preparing fresh meals, many seniors who live alone grab something that is quick and easy to make, which is also usually pre-packaged and void of any nutritional value.

Elderly adults who are malnourished will also experience a weakened immune system, causing them to be more prone to developing illnesses and diseases. Preparing healthy meals can easily be done for one person with a little bit of help. In fact, a home care provider can be hired to offer your loved one company, someone to dine with, and someone to help with the cooking and grocery shopping.

Getting an aging adult to eat nutritious meals when they have no one else to cook for can be a struggle, but is necessary in order to add years to their life. Here are a few ways you can encourage your loved one to eat the foods their body needs to function properly and keep them healthy.

• Eat plenty of fiber. High cholesterol is a serious issue for older adults, but it can be controlled by eating fiber. Apples, kidney beans, and oatmeal are all excellent sources of this nutrient.
• Do not forget the fish. Salmon, halibut, and mackerel are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which is important to keep high blood pressure down.
• Include nuts in your diet. Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, will keep the blood vessels healthy. In turn, the elder’s heart will also stay strong and healthy.
• Skip the salt. Too much sodium can cause the blood pressure to rise. If your loved one wants to add a little flavor to their meal, have them use fresh herbs instead of salt.
• Stay away from white carbs. White flour, white rice, and refined sugar can cause diminish the senior’s energy, leaving them with lethargic feelings. Instead, substitute these harmful carbs with brown rice, vegetables, and fruit.
• Try steamed veggies. Raw vegetables may be too tough for older adults to chew and digest. Steamed vegetables will offer them the same health benefits as the raw variety, but will be much easier to chew.

Eating alone can be dangerous to the health of elderly adults. Having an in-home care provider or family member eat with them as frequently as possible will make them more willing to eat healthier, less processed foods.

Source:
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/news/19991015/eating-alone-unhealthy-for-elderly-news

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