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Welcome to March!

March 1, 2010

Noelle Kurth

 

Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month? We all know that food provides the nutrients and energy we need to be healthy. Even more important is maintaining a good diet in your later year. Studies have shown reduced risk of ostroporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease and certain cancers. Seniors may need less energy as they age, but maintaining a good source of nutrients is crucial.

 

So why do many seniors have such poor eating habits? There are usually a few obstacles that seniors face as they age, including emotional and physical factors. Seniors metabolism slows down, they lose certain taste and smell sensations, medications influence their appetite, they may no longer be physically capable of cooking for themselves, or they may suffer from lonlieness or depression. It is important to periodically evaluate your loved one's eating habits, especially if they have any type of medical condition.

 

Recent Example:

 

Just last week we received a phone call from a concerned daughter about her mother and father's eating habits. She had flown into town for a special visit for her parent's anniversary. While there she was surprised to see a decline in her mother's weight and commented on how fragile she looked. She learned that her mother was not going to the grocery store as often due to her being scared of driving, therefore she wasn't keeping enough food in the home. Her father stopped driving last year. The mother also voiced concerns about not wanting to cook anymore. It was too hard for her to manage the preparation and clean up. The daughter commented on how stressed her mother seemed over the issue and she was very concerned about their health. After evaluating their situation, At Home Personal Care was able to staff a certified aide in their home to help with all of their nutitional needs and even some additional things as well. Our caregiver will continue to monitor the health of these two seniors and through our case management, the daughter will receive continual updates back home.

 

In observance of National Nutrition Month, here are some "Tips for Senior Nutrition":

 

  • reduce sodium (salt) to help prevent water retention and high blood pressure
  • monitor fat intake in order to maintain healthy cholesterol levels
  • consume more calcium and vitamin D for bone health
  • eat more fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation
  • cut back on sugar and on dry foods
  • make sure you get the recommended amount of important vitamins and minerals
  • increase your water intake
  • participate in regular physical activity

 

Seniors and Nutrition



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