Palm Beach County Home Health Care
The importance of a balanced diet cannot be overemphasized for people of all ages. From infancy through adolescence, through young adult and middle aged, every person must take the time to plan and prepare meals that deliver the essential nutrients our bodies need to stay healthy. Seniors in particular should be careful to monitor their overall health, including regular check-ups, to make sure they are getting the nutritional elements they need.
Common health issues for many seniors include vitamin and mineral deficiencies which can be alleviated with better nutrition.
Meal planning includes shopping and preparation which can be difficult for seniors who are unable to get to the store as frequently as they would like to, and cooking can be a laborious task so some homebound people choose to snack rather than prepare a well-balanced meal. Something you can do is to provide snacks that are healthier than chips and candy. Some examples include:
- Veggies with hummus, Try carrots, celery, or cucumber sticks paired with a variety of hummus flavors that are available on the market.
- Citrus fruits, Sliced oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to boost immunity and fight off infection.
- Unsalted nuts, Almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pistachios are great heart-healthy options that keep fresh for a while and need no prep.
- Cottage cheese , Enjoy a great source of protein and calcium that can be paired with whole grain crackers to be more filling, or with an added spoonful of jam or berries for flavor.
- Smoothies, Get the combined benefits of fresh fruits and yogurt, while sneaking in some nutritious add-ins that are easily disguised. Try spinach, avocado, protein powder, and wheat germ for added nutritional value.
The first step in any nutrition program is to get medical advice from a qualified physician, but it may require a visit to a geriatric nutritionist. If you have a loved one that you are concerned about, ask their doctor for a referral to such a specialist.
Homebound persons of all ages may require the services of a Home Health Care Agency, and that’s where we can help. A phone call to 561-210-9096 will put you in contact with someone who can answer all your questions.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a very thorough resource for Nutrition for Older Adults here → nutrition.gov
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