Despite all the information available today when it comes to seniors and nutrition, there are still some lingering myths that can be confusing for caregivers trying to help their senior loved ones maintain healthy diets. To clear things up, here are some of the most common nutrition myths regarding seniors along with some much-needed clarifications.
Seniors Need Fewer Nutrients because Their Metabolisms Are Slower
Even with a slower metabolism, your loved one isn’t absorbing nutrients as efficiently as he or she did when he or she was younger. To compensate for this, seniors need more nutrients, especially calcium, B12, and vitamin D.
Eating nutrient-rich meals isn’t the only way older adults can boost their wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Assisting Hands Home Care Frederick is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
It’s Normal for Aging Adults to Have Decreased Appetites
A decrease in a senior’s appetite is often attributed to the aging process. However, a sudden lack of appetite is often a sign of a more severe underlying problem. For example, an aging adult with tooth pain may find it difficult to chew, making eating unpleasant and leading to what appears to be decreased appetite. Reduced appetite may also be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. If you notice a change in your loved one’s appetite, schedule a checkup with his or her doctor.
If your loved one’s appetite has decreased because of a condition such as dementia or Alzheimer’s, compassionate help is just a phone call away. Families looking for top-rated Frederick senior care providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Slim Seniors Can Eat Anything They Want
Seniors who are naturally slim or within the average weight for their age still need to maintain a well-balanced diet. Consuming too many foods loaded with sugar and saturated fats can pose other problems, including an increased risk of developing heart disease and conditions such as diabetes.
It’s Okay to Skip Meals
Regardless of age, skipping meals is never a good thing. Encourage your loved one to start the day with a healthy breakfast and enjoy small snacks throughout the day. Keep nutritious snacks such as almonds, low-fat plain yogurt, and raw vegetables on hand for your loved one to munch on.
Dividing Meals Saves Money & Hassle
While there’s nothing wrong with leftovers, dividing meals also means a reduction in nutritional value, especially if your loved one is getting prepared meals delivered. Some seniors also have a decreased sense of smell that can make it difficult to tell when foods have gone bad.
Seniors Should Only Drink Fluids when They’re Thirsty
Seniors can still become dehydrated even when they aren’t thirsty. As a general rule, it’s best to keep water or low-calorie beverages handy throughout the day.
Seniors who need help shopping for groceries, planning and preparing nutrient-dense meals, and handling other tasks of everyday life should consider professional in-home care. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading Frederick elder care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks. If your loved one needs professional care, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (301) 786-5045 today.
