Eating right is essential to staying healthy as we age. The human body responds to stimuli differently. Therefore, when aging sets in, certain nutrients become paramount to healthy living.
Ensuring your aging loved one to get proper nutrition while adhering to doctor’s diet recommendations in the face of rising health challenges such as dementia can make healthy living a bit complicated for the elderly. CalRegistry team members are sharing some tips that will help to understand the rudiments of healthy nutrition for the elderly. Please note we are not licensed Nutritionists or doctors, please always follow your doctor’s recommendations and get their opinion on the facts first.

1. Fiber

Since fiber lowers the risk of developing severe heart problems, seniors are encouraged to eat more fiber-rich foods to stay active always. Some examples of foods rich in fiber include peas, cereals, whole grain bread, fruits, and vegetables. A meal fortified with enough fiber nutrients supplies the heart with the vitamins it needs to stay functional even as you age.

2. Vitamin D and Calcium

Calcium and vitamin D help to maintain bone health and healthy teeth. It’s essential for senior living because most people above the age of 50 are prone to tooth decay and gum troubles. Eating a diet rich in these essential ingredients helps to prevent tooth decay and joint problems. Such meals include canned fish with soft bones, milk, and dark leafy vegetables.

3. Potassium

Eating foods rich in potassium and low sodium salt can reduce the risk of seniors developing high blood pressure. Therefore, potassium should be an essential nutritional need of the elderly. Examples include fruits, vegetables, and meals low in sodium salt.

4. Low fatty foods

To maintain proper nutrition for seniors, caregivers, and family members must discourage excessive consumption of high fatty foods by seniors. This is essential to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and other diseases. Instead, encourage foods that are low in trans and saturated fats such as that found in avocados, fish, nuts, and seeds.

5. Vitamin B12

This is yet another essential nutrient seniors need to stay healthy as they age. Unfortunately, most seniors do not get enough vitamin B12 in their daily diet. Some sources include lean meat, fish, fortified cereals, and seafood. You may ask a registered dietician or your doctor if you need Vitamin B12 supplements.

These nutrients are essential for healthy living as we age. But providing foods rich in such nutrients isn’t all there is to senior care. A simple act of spending quality mealtime and engaging seniors while they eat could make all the difference in their lives. If you need help with senior living placement, contact California Registry for more information. There is a reason we are the oldest and most respected senior living referral service in California. We care about you, helping you to find the right location is the only thing we do. Call us 1-800 777-7575 or click this link and send us a message