The Importance of Senior Nutrition

Jan 16, 2024 | Health & Wellness

Good nutrition is the foundation for good health.

A combination of proper nutrients and exercise can help prevent a variety of chronic diseases. Throughout the aging process, bone and muscle mass is lost as metabolisms change. Due to the unique nutritional needs of seniors, taking the proper measures to provide wholesome, healthy foods is key to avoiding malnutrition and disease.

Nutrition Recommendations for Seniors

Though seniors often have lower calorie requirements, they may need more nutrients than younger people. As we age, our ability to absorb nutrients from our food becomes less efficient. Creating a plan with a health professional, such as a dietician, can help seniors age with optimal nourishment.

    1. Nutrient-Dense Meals and Snacks

Understanding the key nutrients for seniors, such as lean protein, fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin D can result in healthier plates. Whole grains and dairy products both provide a boost to a senior’s daily nutrition goal. Hearty soups are popular, as they are easily chewed and can provide vegetables, protein, and grains in a single bowl.

    1. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

Some seniors begin to lose the sensation of thirst, which may lead to dehydration and difficulty digesting meals. Sugary drinks, such as soda and fruit juice with added sweeteners should be enjoyed in moderation. Low-fat milk helps to hydrate and also provides key nutrients, such as protein, potassium, and calcium.

    1. Calorie Intake 

Seniors who find themselves struggling to consume enough calories each day should consider switching to full-fat milk and adding healthy fats and oils to boost calories. Nut butter and avocados are ideal and spread easily on toast or as a standalone snack.

    1. Dietary Supplements When Needed

Depending on the senior’s health, supplements may be recommended. One example is many seniors are prone to calcium and Vitamin D deficiency, which affects bone health. Supplements may help with deficiencies and can in the form of a daily meal-replacement shake or chewable vitamins and minerals.

    1. Focus On Variety

Health experts encourage people of all ages to “eat the rainbow.” By filling a plate with diverse, colorful options, appetites increase and mealtime becomes more stimulating. Encourage variety to avoid the boredom associated with repetition.

What We Can Do To Help

At The Cortland Holland, we believe in providing practical tips to help ensure that our senior residents obtain proper nutrition. If unintentional weight loss has occurred, it’s important to visit a doctor to ensure there are no underlying medical causes. A doctor can provide a referral to a dietician, who is best equipped to build a personalized plan to promote a nourishing eating regimen tailored specifically for our residents.

We understand that seniors who have recently experienced the loss of a spouse or a close friend are prone to loneliness, which can escalate to a depressive state. This makes it difficult for our seniors to cook or feed themselves, even if they’re otherwise independent. That’s why, at Celebration Villa of Teays Valley, we encourage all families to check on their loved ones. You can support them by providing healthy meals or accompanying them out to eat to encourage conversation and enjoy a hearty plate together.

Within our senior living community, we provide nutritious meals each day, and there is a strong sense of social belonging built around eating together. We take great care to ensure that each resident is meeting their personal nutrition goals. Our dedicated team works closely with licensed nutritionists to create a menu of wholesome, healthy, and delicious meals that cater to the unique needs of our seniors.

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An amazing place for your loved ones! We were very, very pleased to have had ...
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Suzanne
An amazing place for your loved ones! We were very, very pleased to have had the opportunity for my Mom to experience the top notch care, interaction and love from every single staff member at this facility. The staff truly cared about and for my Mom. They loved her at every stage she encountered. Thank you for making this transition one of dignity and love. We appreciate all of the care and attention that every single staff member placed into the care and wellbeing of my sweet Mom!
Suzanne
Suzanne
We visited our grandma today who is recovering after a fall. It was our first ...
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Kelly
We visited our grandma today who is recovering after a fall. It was our first visit and we loved it immediately! It feels so homey and comfortable. Of course, we also fell in love with Netflix, the resident cat! We love that grandma is being very well taken care of!
Kelly
Kelly
When Dad needed extra care and support, this was the right choice for our family. ...
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Julie
When Dad needed extra care and support, this was the right choice for our family. The facility is beautiful and well maintained, but the staff is what makes this place special. I spent a lot of time visiting dad and I observed the staff caring for the community members as if they were family. The administrator knows all of the residents well and connects with them daily. It warmed my heart to see the community members having fun playing games, making crafts, or going on an outing. We are thankful for the care that dad received!
Julie
Julie
Your front desk concierge Ettie, is such an asset! Always greets me with a smile ...
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Kristy
Your front desk concierge Ettie, is such an asset! Always greets me with a smile and kind words. Always acknowledges me when I'm leaving. A pure delight! Beautiful property! Friendly staff!
Kristy
Kristy
The staff are friendly, caring and professional. They have taken excellent care of my dad ...
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Rachel
The staff are friendly, caring and professional. They have taken excellent care of my dad while communicating with us regularly about his daily health needs. They stop in frequently to check on us and are available if we need anything. The building is bright and cheery. There are lots of windows, an enclosed courtyard, and a walking path around the perimeter of the property. My family is very thankful he has been able to finish his earthly days here.
Rachel
Rachel

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