Nutritious Eating Tips for the Elderly
Finding the motivation to cook healthy meals during winter can be tough. Nonetheless, eating well is vital for maintaining good health and enjoying life to the fullest. Proper nutrition keeps our muscles and bones strong and our brains sharp. Yet, about 30% of people aged 60 or over living independently are at risk of malnutrition.
Advice on Healthy Eating for Over 60s
As we grow older, we need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight but require more of certain nutrients, like protein. Only one in twelve older Australians meets the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables.
The CSIRO recommends that older adults focus on consuming fewer kilojoules while ensuring adequate nutrient intake, particularly protein. According to Professor Emerita Jennie Brand-Miller, Professor of Human Nutrition at the University of Sydney, a modestly higher protein intake, around 25% of daily consumption, is ideal. This translates to about 90 grams of protein daily, along with 45% of calories coming from carbohydrates. A higher protein and low GI diet not only supports weight management and muscle retention but also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, which can accelerate aging. For more detailed information, visit the CSIRO’s guide on healthy eating for older adults.
If your loved one is either gaining or losing weight, or their blood tests show nutrient deficiencies, it might be because shopping and cooking have become too much for them. At Home Care Assistance Central Coast, our Aged Care Professionals are trained to help the elderly maintain a nutritious diet. Here are some tips to help your loved ones eat well this winter.
Create a Meal Plan
Planning meals can take the guesswork out of what to eat and make shopping easier. Work with your loved one to plan meals in advance and make sure all necessary ingredients are on the shopping list. Ensure the meals are appealing and easy for them to prepare.
Help with Shopping
Assist your loved one by taking them shopping (with your meal plan list) or arranging a grocery delivery. Having the right food at home simplifies the process of making healthy meals.
Cook with Your Loved One
Cooking together can lighten their load and ensure they have nutritious food to eat. It also allows for quality time together. Make it a regular activity that you both enjoy.
Drop Off Some Meals
If cooking together isn’t feasible, consider preparing extra portions of your meals and dropping them off to your loved one. This is especially useful if the meals can be frozen. Our tip is to portion the meals individually before freezing for easy reheating. Casseroles, spaghetti bolognese, and soups work well for this.
Consider Extra Help
If your loved one is losing weight or not eating well despite your efforts, it might be time to get additional support. In-home aged care can be customized to include help with shopping and meal preparation. At Home Care Assistance Central Coast, our Care Professionals frequently assist with meal preparation, catering to dietary needs and preferences.
Eating well is fundamental to staying healthy. If your loved one is struggling with their diet, support them by cooking together or arranging grocery deliveries. If more help is needed, professional home care services like those offered by Home Care Assistance can provide the necessary support.
Support from a in-home aged care agency like Home Care Assistance Central Coast can greatly improve your quality of life while living independently at home. For more information, contact our team today.
