It also weakens muscles and bones, which can lead to falls, fractures, and hospitalization. Poor nutrition can weaken the immune system and slow wound healing, according to Mayo Clinic. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to nutritional risks due to age-related physiological changes such as diminished appetite, a reduced sense of taste and smell, and chewing or swallowing problems, reports Statistics Canada. Although people often think of eating disorders in relation to teens and young adults, about one-third of Canadians 65 and older are at nutritional risk, says McMaster University. Older adults can eat well and improve nutrition by being physically active, eating regular meals, choosing healthy snacks, enhancing food flavours, and sharing meals with family, friends or peers.Įating Disorders Awareness Week is held in the first week of February. Poor nutrition weakens the immune system, muscles and bones, increasing the risks of infections, falls and fractures. Why Now Reasons to Consider Retirement GuideĮxcerpt: One-third of older adults are at nutritional risk due to lack of appetite, reduced taste and smell, eating alone and medication side effects.The director of dining services and registered dietitian regularly collaborate to improve menu items and create a variety of flavorful dishes that residents can savor and enjoy. The dietary department works tirelessly to ensure residents are satisfied with their meals. By providing proper therapeutic nutrition, like the cardiac diet, it supports the work of the interdisciplinary team – from nursing to physical and occupational therapies. Menus are carefully analyzed and followed to ensure diet compliance and encourage the best health outcomes in our residents. This diet provides at least 1,500 calories per day, with less than 30% of total calories from fat. Life Care’s cardiac diet is designed to limit residents’ intake of sodium, total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol. What do we do for patients on therapeutic diets? Some breakfast ideas include oatmeal with berries, an English muffin with jam or jelly, low-fat yogurt or an egg white omelet with onion, green bell pepper and mushrooms! Eating a wholesome breakfast in the morning may help curb hunger and encourage better food choices throughout the day.To add flavor to foods, try adding a variety of herbs and spices in lieu of salt.Aim for less than 2,000 milligrams of sodium per day and to consume foods with no more than 140 milligrams per serving. Canned foods, frozen foods, snack foods, pre-made mixes, deli meats, some cheeses, pickles and condiments are all salty foods that should be consumed sparingly.
Avoid frequent snacking of high-fat foods between meals (like potato chips, butter-flavored popcorn, snack mixes and regular crackers).Packing your own lunch can help you control what you are eating when you are away from home. Instead, create meals that include lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. It’s also best to use soft margarines or vegetable oil spreads in place of butter, shortening or tropical oils (i.e., coconut and palm oils). Use small amounts of unsaturated oils (i.e., olive, canola, sunflower and peanut oils).Use low-fat/non-fat milk and dairy products in place of whole milk, regular butter and cream.Aim for five servings of fruits and vegetables each day to reap the benefits of their vitamin, mineral and fiber content.Select whole grain breads, rolls and cereals instead of white bread, white rice, refined/sweetened cereals or baked goods.Plant-based items, including legumes and soy foods, are also good sources of protein. Lean proteins such as poultry and fish are preferable to red meats.Below are some tips for improving your overall nutrition and supporting a heart-healthy lifestyle. A heart-healthy diet includes a variety of foods that are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber, as well as limiting foods that are high in fat, cholesterol and sodium. Poor nutrition is a significant risk factor in many of the leading causes of death in the U.S., including heart disease, diabetes, stroke and cancer. Good nutrition is essential for maintaining health and providing the energy necessary for optimal physical and mental performance. Sarah Eddy, registered dietitian at Life Care Center of Plainwell
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