NUTRITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR

SENIORS CITIZENS

IntroductionGood nutrition for elderly can help reduce certain health related problems among elderly members like osteoporosis, heart disease, high blood pressure, and even a few forms of cancer. Proper nutrition and healthy living can improve appearance, strength, balance, mobility, and overall mood. Reports from various sources indicate that a large population of elderly members are unable to meet the energy and nutrient requirement as they fail to get the correct amount and type of food. In fact it has been calculated that 60% of the hospitalized older adults (over the age of 65) suffer from malnutrition. By 2030, Americans aged 65 and older will reach an approximate figure of 75 million, comprising nearly about 20% of the U.S. population. Here we will discuss some key nutritional facts for seniors in order to prevent malnutrition and encourage a better life.

Focus On Essential NutrientsVitamins and minerals are highly essential for seniors to maintain a proper health as they start aging. Metabolism rates among aged people is much slower as they lose their ability to absorb certain vitamins and minerals. Hence, it is vital for seniors to have a nutrition-dense diet with a focus on key nutrients which are commonly deficient among them. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein are considered as good nutrition for healthy aging.

Avoid Junk Foods & Aim For VarietySaturated fats and trans fats which comes from junk and processed foods should be avoided at all cost. Senior members should incorporate a diversity of food in their diet in order to provide the body with a variety of nutrition. It is essential to have good sources of iron, protein, healthy fats and calcium each day. Meats, fruits and vegetables helps to keep a healthy body by providing a wide array of nutrients.

Stay HydratedDehydration is one of the major risk for senior citizens as it leads to disorientation, confusion and unhealthy changes in blood pressure. No matter how good a diet is being maintained, without proper intake of water it is hard to maintain a healthy body and mind. According to National Institute of Health it is recommended for seniors to intake at least 8 glasses (8 oz. each) of water each day.

Vitamin-rich Foods For Seniors• Vitamin B (6 and 12): Smoked salmon, feta cheese and/or sunflower seeds• Vitamin C: Broccoli, red bell pepper, sprouts, papaya.• Vitamin D: Get outside in the sunshine, take fish oil supplements and/or eat soy

products like tofu or soy milk• Calcium: Dark leafy greens, cheese and/or yogurt• Magnesium: Leafy greens, nuts and seeds and/or avocado• Potassium: Bananas, beans and/or squash

ConclusionAs people age they face difficulty in eating and sometimes prefer homogenous diets which decreases their source of good nutrition. Elders often have trouble chewing fresh fruit and so they can look for alternative fruit juices, soft canned fruits, apple-sauce, etc. Reports from The American Dietetic Association shows that senior members intake only a third of the nutritional requirements that their bodies actually need, which actually diminishes their quality of life. A lot of thinking goes into when it comes to maintain and prepare healthy diets for seniors and yet we have to keep in mind that every situation is going to be different based on health, taste and living conditions of each individual.

Contact UsIf you want to have Professional Dieticians prepare a healthy diet for your elderly members and Licensed Practical Nurses provide professional assistance in a home-like assisted living center then reach us at:

Call: (405) 306-2605Website: www.redhavencarehomes.comEmail: redhavencare@gmail.comAddress: • 6900 Northwest 129th Street

Oklahoma City, OK, 73142• 6916 Northwest 129th Street

Oklahoma City, OK, 73142