Older Adults: Eat Your Way to Good Health
“Good nutrition is important
at every stage of life,” says Paul Dell’Aquila,
MD, Vice President of Medical Affairs for the Saint
Barnabas Health Care System Nursing and Rehabilitation
Centers and Assisted Living Residences. “In fact,
as you age, the risks for nutrition-related diseases
such as heart disease and osteoporosis increase.”
Yet for millions of older Americans,
maintaining healthful eating habits is a struggle. Many
older adults not only eat meals low in nutrients, but
skip meals altogether. “Poor nutrition can lead
to weight loss, lightheadedness, lethargy, loss of appetite,
prolonged recovery from illness and disorientation,”
adds Dr. Dell’Aquila.
If you or a loved one has gotten
out of the habit of eating well, take heart that food
can be fun at any age. Following are some tips to help
you get back on the road to proper nutrition and good
health.
-
Make your
mouth happy. Intensify tastes by adding flavors
and sweeteners, such as herbs, sauces, syrup, butter
flavoring, etc. In addition, combine different textures.
-
Sharpen
your shopping skills. Consider doing your
grocery shopping at convenient times when the store
is not crowded. In addition, stretch your dollars
by considering unit pricing, that way you can get
the same food for less.
-
Enjoy food
with friends. “Whenever possible, make
eating a fun social event,” says Dr. Dell’Aquila.
Invite friends or family to join you for meals or
consider joining a community group-dining program
where you can make new friends.
-
Activate
your appetite. By getting exercise and remaining
physically active you can boost your mood, improve
your health and increase your appetite.
-
Complement
your cooking. If you can’t get all
the nutrients you need from food, you may want to
consider taking a vitamin and mineral supplement.
Discuss with your physician which are best for you.
