While a healthy, productive lifestyle can be enjoyed at any age, priorities need to shift to compensate for changing biological needs. As your loved one advances in age, it becomes more important to develop healthy eating habits to prevent or minimize age-related conditions like arthritis and bone loss.
Compensate for Age-Related Bone Loss
Anywhere from 10 to 30 percent of the adult skeleton is remodeled in some way each year, with a loss in bone density being one of the results of those changes. Encourage your senior loved one to compensate for age-related bone loss with:
• Calcium-rich dairy products like yogurt and non-fat milk
• Red peppers, green peppers, oranges, and other vitamin-rich fruits and veggies
• Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines
Embrace Colorful Fruits and Vegetables
Jefferson County elderly care professionals recommend seniors eat at least five servings of foods that are high in vitamins, minerals and fiber per day in the form of full meals or snacks. Help your senior loved one meet this dietary requirement by embracing colorful fruits and veggies since such selections tend to be rich in nutrients seniors need.
Reduce Sodium Levels
Excessive salt can increase a senior’s risk of developing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Low-fat an low-sodium foods can also boost senior heart health. Help your loved one adjust sodium levels with:
• Adjustments to favorite soup and stew recipes to include low-salt variations
• A diet that includes fresh fruits rather than canned varieties that often use salt as preservative
• An avoidance of pickled foods, processed meats, and other foods high in sodium
Your senior loved one can still have some of his or her favorite foods in moderation while making dietary adjustments with age to maintain muscle strength and reduce health risks. Benefits of a balanced senior diet can be further enhanced with age-appropriate exercise and regular physical activity.
Interested in learning more about promoting senior health and wellness? Reach out to the dedicated staff at Home Care Assistance. All of our care services, including live-in, hourly, and respite care in Jefferson County, include the use of our Balanced Care Method to help seniors maintain physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Learn more by calling (303) 987-5992 and requesting a complimentary in-home consultation.