What's for Dinner?
It's the question of the century, right? Picky eating is something normally associated with toddlers and young kids but as people age sometimes their food choices and what they feel like making can change too. Sometimes elderly people may not like a certain food because of how it makes them feel, medical reasons or simply because they don’t have the energy to prepare a meal for themselves.
Keep it Balanced
Encouraging older people to eat balanced and healthy can be frustrating for caregivers and families because after all, we want them to stay healthy and happy as long as they can. One way to encourage healthier eating is finding more convenient foods that require less prep work. While it may sometimes mean spending a few extra dollars it’s still less expensive than eating out all the time and your loved one will be eating to nourish their needs.
6 Easy Meal Ideas for Seniors
Check out some of these food options that are more convenient and still fairly healthy and tasty. If you’re helping a loved one with grocery shopping or meal prep, always let them have a say in what they want but simply encourage them to find healthier options. If you need advice, you can turn to professionals at a local senior center or home health place for tips to guide their food choices. Remember to always consult with their physician regarding anything they need to eat or need to avoid.
Canned Fruit
Fresh fruit and produce tends to spoil faster if not used but canned fruit and vegetables are still relatively healthy and have a longer shelf life. Look for fruit packed in its own juice or in a sugar free syrup. For vegetables, look for salt free options or lower sodium options. Also make sure they have a can opener even if it means purchasing an electric can opener for easier use.
Oatmeal
Instant oatmeal is such an easy option and can be mixed with toppings for a tastier option. Look for lower sugar oatmeal or plain oatmeal and then stock up on toppings they enjoy. Oatmeal has great nutrients and is so filling.
Quick Soups
With the weather cooling down, soup is a cozy option. There are many more healthier options when it comes to soup now including lower sodium, more organic soups and even soups made in the deli section of the grocery store.
YogurtYogurt is such an easy snack or meal with lots of nutritional benefits such as calcium, Vitamin D and probiotics. Make yogurt parfaits with low sugar granola and various fruits. To keep sugar content down, look for plain or more basic flavors as fruit flavored yogurt tends to be higher in sugar. |  |
Cottage Cheese
This dairy powerhouse is another easy snack or meal add-on and can be combined with certain toppings. Look for sodium free options.
Fish
Seafood such as salmon has many great Omega-3 benefits for the mind and body. Look for frozen filets but make sure you check the sodium content. Try to steer clear of seasoned and fried fish and look for basic filets. You can also check out canned tuna or salmon as well but aim for canned fish in water.
If you ever need additional help with grocery shopping or planning meals, ask the professionals at your local home healthcare place for advice. Healthy eating doesn’t need to be complicated. At Hands and Hearts Home Care, the health and comfort of your loved one is our priority! Call us today to discuss a personalized in home care plan for your senior!
RSS Feed