Improving Senior Nutrition

With many seniors suffering from malnourishment, whether due to cognitive decline, physical impairment, chronic illnesses, or a whole host of other issues, coming up with strategies to combat undernutrition in older adults, to ensure proper intake of calories, vitamins, and minerals is important. And like with anything else, keeping the strategies simple and easy to follow will give you the greatest chance of success.

Along with malnutrition, dehydration is a big risk for seniors. Because our natural thirst impulse diminishes as we age, and many medications further impair it, it’s important to ensure we take in enough water and fluids, as older adults. Setting a timer to drink a glass of water at regular intervals, or filling up a jug at the beginning of the day and finishing it over the course of the day are good ideas to keep hydrated.

Protein is an important building block and macronutrient for maintaining bodily health. Many people only think of meat when it comes to taking in dietary protein, but eggs, cheese, yogurt, or nuts are all great sources. Protein can also be supplemented as mixes or ready made drinks.

Identifying and limiting or removing empty calories is another great way to enhance overall nutrition. Snack items like potato chips, cookies, dinner rolls, or soda are all poor choices, as they fill you up without doing anything for you. Try switching out unhealthy snacks with things like fresh vegetables, nuts, multigrain crackers, and white breads with whole-grain breads will help you satisfy the urge to snack, while still providing valuable nutrition.