Seniors need to be eating healthy meals, but if your mom or dad is aging in place and you don’t live with them you may not be sure if they are eating the way they should. If your mom or dad isn’t eating healthy foods, it could be due to medical challenges, difficulties with the physical aspects of preparing meals, or just not wanting to make a big meal for one person.
But no matter what the reason is, your mom or dad needs to get a healthy number of calories, vitamins, and minerals every day. 24-hour home care can help your mom or dad stay healthy at home by preparing meals and snacks whenever your mom or dad is hungry. If your senior parent has 24-hour home care someone will always be there to fix them something to eat.
24-hour home care providers can also shop for groceries, organize the pantry so healthy foods are within easy reach, and make meals and portion them out ahead of time so that your mom or dad can microwave something on their own if they want.
Some other nutrition tips that will help your mom or dad eat better are:
Focus on Protein for Strength
As people age, they naturally lose muscle mass. This can lead to weakness and a higher risk of falls. To help your senior parent stay strong, make sure they get enough protein in their diet.
Good sources of protein include lean meats like chicken and turkey, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and dairy products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. If your mom or dad has trouble chewing, try softer options like scrambled eggs or protein smoothies.
Stay Hydrated
Many seniors don’t drink enough water, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause dizziness, confusion, and even urinary tract infections. Encourage your parent to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Water is the best choice, but other healthy options include herbal tea, low-sodium broth, and milk. If they don’t like plain water, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries for extra flavor. You may need to remind your mom or dad to drink even if they don’t feel thirsty since the sense of thirst decreases with age.
Eat More Fiber for Digestive Health
Fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Some great choices include oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, apples, carrots, and lentils. Encourage your mom or dad to eat a variety of high-fiber foods every day by making sure there is fruit, whole grain bread, and other high-fiber foods in the house.
Get Enough Calcium and Vitamin D for Strong Bones
Bones become weaker with age, which increases the risk of fractures. Calcium and vitamin D are important for keeping bones strong, and your mom or dad probably doesn’t get enough of these important nutrients.
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are good sources of calcium. Leafy greens like spinach and kale, as well as almonds and tofu, also provide calcium. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, and it can be found in foods like salmon, egg yolks, and fortified cereals.
Limit Sugar and Processed Foods
Eating too much sugar and processed food can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health issues. Encourage your parent to eat more fresh, whole foods instead of packaged snacks and sugary drinks.
Often, seniors turn to processed meals that are easy to heat when they are having trouble cooking or shopping, often for fresh food. Having 24-hour home care can help your mom or dad change their diet because they will help plan meals, cook, and shop for healthy foods.
If you or an aging loved one are considering 24-Hour Home Care in Alexandria, VA, please contact the caring staff at Cardinal Home Care today! (703) 934-4610
Cardinal Home Care provides exceptional home care services in Arlington, Alexandria, Leesburg, Reston, Herndon, Manassas, Ashburn, Falls Church, McLean, Fairfax, Virginia, and the surrounding communities.
Cardinal Home Care launched in 2019, with the purpose of providing quality non-medical home care to seniors wishing to remain in the comfort of their homes.
Cardinal Home Care provides exceptional home care services in Arlington, Alexandria, Leesburg, Reston, Herndon, Manassas, Ashburn, Falls Church, McLean, Fairfax Virginia and the surrounding communities.
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