The Importance of Senior Nutrition

Dec 1, 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 Brentwood at LaPorte, 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 Brentwood at LaPorte, 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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Brentwood at LaPorte is a wonderful community that cares for all of their residents! The ...
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Ashley
Brentwood at LaPorte is a wonderful community that cares for all of their residents! The staff approaches care with respect and dignity.
Ashley
Ashley
This facility is very clean and nice! Everyone is extremely friendly and helpful! I would ...
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Jemai
This facility is very clean and nice! Everyone is extremely friendly and helpful! I would recommend Brentwood at Laporte to anyone! You must check them out!
Jemai
Jemai
Person-centered care with a unique, individual approach for everyone living there. Staff is absolutely amazing &...
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Haley
Person-centered care with a unique, individual approach for everyone living there. Staff is absolutely amazing & you can tell that everyone who works there loves what they do!
Haley
Haley
Brentwood is a loving and caring facility. I am so impressed with the staff and ...
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Shannon
Brentwood is a loving and caring facility. I am so impressed with the staff and how they treat their residents with love and care! I love how they keep their residents active and enjoying life!
Shannon
Shannon
Brentwood at LaPorte is truly amazing! staff are so helpful and kind, especially the nursing ...
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Dannae
Brentwood at LaPorte is truly amazing! staff are so helpful and kind, especially the nursing staff! They all go above and beyond to help out the residents and their families!
Dannae
Dannae
Brentwood has truly transformed in the 6 months, with focus on making the resident’s...
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Michelle
Brentwood has truly transformed in the 6 months, with focus on making the resident’s the main point and making sure their needs are being cared for and met. As I’ve walked down the hallways, I’ve noticed bigger smiles and contagious laughs of resident’s feeling right at “home”, and you can’t help but to crack a smile and laugh right along with them. Keep up the Great work Brentwood Staff.
Michelle
Michelle
My bestfriend is Ali, she is the Memory Care Director. She invites me and my 2 ...
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Heather
My bestfriend is Ali, she is the Memory Care Director. She invites me and my 2 children to most of the events and we absolutely love coming to them. The staff is amazing and so great with my kids. The residents love to see my 2 little girls and I feel like it brightens their time, while we are there. I have never had a bad experience there. Everyone is so helpful and kind. Everything is clean and well-taken care of. The events are always so much fun ((for all ages)) and my children usually fall asleep as soon as we leave the parking lot, because of all the excitement. If I had an elderly family member that needed special care, Brentwood would be my first choice.
Heather
Heather

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