A healthy diet for seniors has many challenges. Use these tips to overcome them.

Is there anything more delightful than relishing your preferred meal, perfectly prepared to your liking? Unfortunately, for numerous older adults, this usually simple joy transforms into a hurdle. Health conditions, medication side effects, and the challenge of obtaining groceries due to mobility issues can complicate the pursuit of a nutritious diet for seniors. At Home Matters Caregiving Houston, we understand these challenges and offer some valuable tips to assist.

Senior nutrition guidelines that emphasize optimal overall health.

What Are the Most Common Nutrition Problems for Seniors?

Digestion problems

Acid reflux, excess gas, and other stomach problems can lead to the avoidance of certain types of foods, which could lead to a deficiency in vital nutrients, like protein, calcium, fiber, and more. FDA recommendations include:

• Foregoing milk and substituting less irritating dairy products, like cream soups, cheese, yogurt, or pudding.
• Replace high-fiber veggies like broccoli and cabbage with carrots, potatoes, and vegetable juices, which are easier to digest.
• Try canned fruits or fruit juice in place of fresh fruit.

Chewing problems

Fresh vegetables, meats, and fruits aren’t easy to consume for those with problems chewing. Try these replacements instead:

• Canned pears and peaches, applesauce, and fruit juice.
• Cooked or mashed vegetables and vegetable juices.
• Eggs, cheese, yogurt, and ground meat.
• Rice, cooked cereals, bread pudding, and soft cookies.

Cooking/shopping problems

Difficulty with cooking can occur for several reasons: cognitive changes, problems with standing for long periods of time, or even trouble handling cooking utensils. Additionally, mobility issues make it hard for many older adults to get out to the store to pick up groceries. Try these ideas:

• Use the microwave to heat prepackaged meals and frozen foods.
• Explore meal programs for seniors, such as Meals on Wheels.
• Look into home delivery options from the local grocery store.
• Partner with a professional caregiver from Home Matters Caregiving Houston to shop for groceries and prepare nutritious meals.

Appetite changes

Seniors who live alone may simply not feel like cooking for one and may feel lonely at mealtimes, which can lead to a reduced appetite. Medications can also affect the way food tastes. Try:

• Sharing meals with a lonely senior loved one as often as possible.
• Look into congregate meals provided at local senior centers.
• Talk to the doctor about potential medication side effects that may be affecting appetite.

Home Matters Caregiving Houston is here to help someone you love overcome any barriers in order to maintain a healthy diet for seniors. Contact us at 832-371-6600 to find out more about how in-home senior care can provide you with the lifeline you need to enjoy a healthier quality of life.

Home Matters Caregiving proudly serves the Houston Metro area providing care for seniors wherever they call home.