Did your loved one lose appetite or interest in healthy foods? You should know this is a natural outcome, and many seniors face it. Some experts say that the aging process can make one anxious while experiencing a debilitating health problem might make an elderly less inclined to follow healthy habits. Nevertheless, there are some tips and tricks you can use to help your senior adopt a healthy meal plan starting today. And with the aid of a trained caregiver, you can get your parent the nutrition he needs. Let’s see what this is all about!
Create a meal and snack schedule
A routine is more than essential for seniors since it offers a sense of continuity and comfort. Besides, serving food at the same time each day teaches their bodies when the right time to eat is. And remember that older people lose their ability to feel hunger. It is a natural outcome of the aging process, so you should make sure you create a meal schedule and offer them nutritious foods at all times.
Create smaller portions with high nutrient foods
Many seniors tend to back away when they see a considerable quantity on their plates. So, it is an excellent idea to serve them with smaller portions. Nutritionists recommend for older adults 5 small meals per day rather than 3 larger ones. Make sure you increase the quantity of healthy calories by serving: avocado, olive oil, cheese, eggs, and nut butter.
Make sure you have easy-to-eat snacks available
Did you know that most seniors prefer having snacks throughout the day rather than full meals? Well, it is ok, and you can help your loved one get his nutritional intake with ease. You can serve string cheese, cheese sticks, full-fat yogurt, full-fat cottage cheese, or even whole chocolate milk. Remember to take into account your loved one’s preferences in food. It will be easier to convince him to eat healthily!
Ask the doctor if you can serve smoothies
There might be the case when your loved one has a hard time chewing even the smallest food. And this might be a good reason to ask the doctor about whether or not you can serve liquids. Some suggestions include nutritious sups, healthy smoothies made from fruits and vegetables, and full-fat milk.
Watch out the vitamin D and calcium intake
Both vitamin D and calcium are essential for bone health. Also, vitamin D helps the immune system fight off inflammation. Include in your senior’s meal plan cheese, oily fish, eggs, and dairy products. And consider asking their doctor about whether or not there is a need for supplements.
The bottom line
Helping seniors adopt a meal plan might seem challenging at first. Still, with a bit of attention to details, you can help them get adequate nutritional intake. And you can always request additional help from a professional caregiver. He or she can monitor food preferences and help you tailor the best diet for your loved one.