The Importance of Senior Nutrition

Sep 12, 2023 | 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 Celebration Villa of Summit Hills, 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 Summit Hills, 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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Wonderful place to work. The residents are great! Very friendly and clean. Love my job!
Sarah Cutter
Wonderful place to work. The residents are great! Very friendly and clean. Love my job!
Sarah Cutter
Sarah Cutter
Great assisted living facility. I had a chance to meet Marvin who was welcoming and ...
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A M
Great assisted living facility. I had a chance to meet Marvin who was welcoming and kind. Staff was great and very experienced. Gem of an establishment.
A M
A M
Celebration Villa is a perfect fit for my Dad. All the staff makes an effort ...
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Kathy Meier
Celebration Villa is a perfect fit for my Dad. All the staff makes an effort to know the residents and interact with them. They are cheerful, positive and truly care about each resident. There are plenty of activities daily.  
Kathy Meier
Kathy Meier
I am a Physical Therapist who has been seeing patients at Celebration Villa for about ...
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Ben Fannin
I am a Physical Therapist who has been seeing patients at Celebration Villa for about a year now. I have gotten to know the staff very well since we often collaborate to care for the residents. The whole staff including the caregivers, maintenance team, activity directors, and management have been top notch. Regardless of their role, everyone cares deeply for the residents and works very hard to provide them with the best experience possible. Any time a patient of mine is interested in moving to a senior living facility, I always recommend Celebration Villa.
Ben Fannin
Ben Fannin
Enjoyed touring with Marvin. All the staff are very kind and residents are happy.
Juli Curtis
Enjoyed touring with Marvin. All the staff are very kind and residents are happy.
Juli Curtis
Juli Curtis

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