It doesn’t matter if someone is young or elderly, eating nutritious meals is important. However, it isn’t always easy finding and making healthy food. You probably have seen hundreds of frozen and microwavable meals available in the local grocery store. These meals are often quick to make which means they can save your elderly loved one time and energy. You need to be aware that these types of meals are often high in sodium and fat. Many senior care providers recommend staying away from most frozen dinners. There are some other options and guidelines to use when it comes to your elderly loved one’s meal plans.
Guidelines for Elderly Adults When it Comes to Meal Planning
The first thing to think about when you and your elderly loved one go shopping for food is liquids. It is extremely important for elderly adults to consume plenty of liquids throughout the day. Water should be at the top of the list. Research shows that an elderly adult should also drink between 2 and 3 glasses of low-fat milk every day. In addition, to liquids, your elderly loved one should eat a variety of vegetables, protein, and whole grains, as well. As we all know, sometimes our elderly loved one might just want a frozen meal. If you choose to go this route, just make sure to read the nutritional label for information regarding calories, sodium, fats, and other nutrients that are included in the meal.
Healthy Options for Elderly Adult Meal Plans
Prepping for the week can make meal planning a whole lot easier. In fact, breakfast is probably the easiest meal to prep for your elderly loved one. One example of a great breakfast you can prep includes making a hard-boiled egg and putting some fruit slices in a container. You can prep enough eggs for the entire week, so your elderly loved one just has to peel them in the morning. You can also cut up the fruit slices. This means your elderly loved one can just open up the container when they are ready to eat breakfast. Another breakfast your loved one might enjoy is yogurt parfaits. Most parfaits are fairly simple and healthy, too. You should also prep lunches, dinners, and snacks. This way you will always know your elderly loved one has healthy options.
Conclusion
It is important to mention that if your elderly loved one is changing their diet, even if it is to include healthier meals, they should speak with their doctor before beginning a new meal regimen. Their doctor can offer advice on how they can eat healthier and improve their overall lifestyle.
Sources
https://choosemyplate-prod.azureedge.net/sites/default/files/tentips/DGTipsheet42ChoosingHealthyMealsAsYouGetOlder.pdf
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING SENIOR CARE IN ROCKY MOUNT, NC, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS TODAY. CALL (919) 761-5346.