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One in three hospital patients is malnourished upon
admission and almost one-third of U.S. patients (31 percent) experiences
declines in nutritional status while in the hospital.
Dietary needs evolve as people age, and seniors need to know
how to manage those changes to maintain physical health and wellness. Older
adults need to take an active role in shaping their diet and nutrition habits
to ensure more energy, better disease prevention and quality of life.
Seniors should consult their physician to discuss their
individual needs. Healthcare professionals can also help seniors and their
families create and implement healthy eating plans.
These
plans often include:
·
Increased protein and
fiber intake. Protein and fiber are
important nutrients for seniors. Foods high in fiber can help maintain healthy
digestive systems as we age, and increasing protein intake can help seniors
increase or maintain energy and strength.
·
Whole grains have
multiple benefits. Whole grains are
also fiber-rich foods that not only aid the digestive process but promote
healthy hearts for seniors. Cereal, rice and bread made with whole grains can
easily be found at any grocery store and provide several serving choices to meet
recommended daily requirements.
·
Calcium is a key
component in maintaining bone strength. Calcium
can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when calcium intake is consistent.
Preventing osteoporosis is critical for seniors – especially those that are at
risk for falls.
·
Hydration is critical at
any age. Physical changes
that occur with age make hydration even more important for older adults. For
those that are less inclined to drink water, there are alternatives – milk,
juice and broth are all hydrating liquids, and there are hydrating foods including
watermelon, cucumbers and grapes.
If
engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps seniors can take
to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a
physician about diet or health concerns they might have, they can also try the
following tactics to get back on the right track:
·
Make meals a social
occasion– Sharing a meal is one
of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can
include making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to
people that love to cook healthy food and offering them some company at mealtimes.
·
Make healthy eating fit
your budget– Good food doesn’t have
to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget
friendly, nutritious food options. And maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves
money on medical care in the future.
·
Shop for healthy foods– Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options
is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet.
·
Encourage people to ask
for help– If someone has concerns
about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they
just aren’t getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home
caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can
all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.
Comfort Keepers Can Help
If
someone is struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, consider getting
support from the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers®. Our
caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and can help
support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Our goal is to see
that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day,
regardless of age or acuity.
To
learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers
location today.
References
Mayo Clinic. “Senior
health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition.” Web. 2017.
Next Avenue,
“Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults.” Web. 2016.
Public Health Post.
“Malnutrition in Older Adults.” Web. 2017
Healthline. “How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age.” Web. 2017.
Snack Smarter: How SnackEver Supports Your Specific Dietary NeedsIn today's health-conscious world, adhering to specific dietary requirements is more common than ever. Whether you're following a vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, or sugar-conscious diet, finding suitable snacks that align with your nutritional goals can be challenging. SnackEver is dedicated to simplifying this process by offering a diverse range of snacks tailored to various dietary preferences.Understanding the Rise of Specialized DietsThe increasing prevalence of specialized diets stems from various factors, including health conditions, ethical beliefs, and lifestyle choices. For instance:Vegan and Vegetarian Diets: Many individuals choose plant-based diets for health benefits, environmental concerns, or animal welfare considerations.Gluten-Free Diets: Essential for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, this diet eliminates gluten-containing grains to prevent adverse health effects.Keto and Paleo Diets: These low-carbohydrate diets focus on high-fat and high-protein foods to promote weight loss and improve metabolic health.Sugar-Conscious Diets: Reducing sugar intake is crucial for managing diabetes, preventing weight gain, and maintaining overall health.The Challenge of Finding Suitable SnacksAdhering to a specific diet often means scrutinizing food labels and ingredients, which can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Many conventional snacks contain hidden ingredients that may not align with certain dietary restrictions, making it difficult for individuals to find convenient and compliant options.SnackEver: Your Partner in Healthy SnackingSnackEver addresses these challenges by curating a wide selection of snacks that cater to various dietary needs. Their commitment to promoting wellness is evident in their diverse product offerings and user-friendly website.Diverse Product CategoriesOur inventory is organized into clear categories, making it easy for customers to find snacks that fit their specific diets. Some of the categories include:Chips, Popcorn & Crunchy Snacks: For those craving something savory and crisp.Chewy Snacks: Ideal for a quick, satisfying bite.Cookies, Crackers & Baked Goods: Perfect for indulging in sweet treats without compromising dietary goals.Trail Mix, Granola & Nuts: Great for on-the-go energy boosts.Snack Bars: Including protein and energy bars for sustained nourishment.Diet-Specific SelectionsUnderstanding that each diet has unique requirements, SnackEver offers specialized sections for:Vegan: Snacks free from animal products.Vegetarian: Options that exclude meat but may include dairy or eggs.Gluten-Free: Products made without gluten-containing ingredients.Keto-Friendly: Low-carb, high-fat snacks suitable for ketogenic diets.Sugar-Conscious: Items with reduced or no added sugars.Paleo-Friendly: Snacks that align with Paleolithic dietary guidelines.Dairy-Free: Suitable for those avoiding dairy products.Organic: Products made with organically sourced ingredients.Kosher: Snacks that meet kosher dietary laws.SnackEver prioritizes quality by sourcing products from reputable brands and providing detailed ingredient information for each item. This transparency allows customers to make informed choices that align with their dietary needs and preferences. For those who enjoy variety and convenience, we offer subscription boxes tailored to individual dietary preferences. These boxes provide a curated selection of snacks delivered regularly, introducing customers to new products that align with their diets. Our mission extends beyond providing snacks; we are dedicated to promoting overall wellness and supporting our local Pittsburgh community. Learn more at www.Snackever.com.
As the temperature drops and winter settles in, seniors need to maintain a healthy diet. A balanced diet not only supports the immune system but also ensures overall well-being during the colder months. Caregivers play a vital role in making sure that the seniors they care for get enough nutrients, especially when it comes to snacking. Snacks offer a perfect opportunity to supplement nutritional needs without preparing full meals. We want to focus on easy-to-prepare, nutritionally balanced snacks that cater to both seniors and caregivers.Nutritional Needs in WinterSeniors may experience specific nutritional needs. The cold weather can lead to decreased activity levels, making it necessary to consume foods that are rich in protein and fiber. Protein supports muscle health, while fiber aids digestion and prevents constipation. Essential nutrients like vitamins D and C are needed to support the immune system and boost energy levels. Caregivers can address these nutritional needs through smart snack choices, ensuring that meals are not only satisfying but also healthful.Easy-to-Prepare Snack IdeasHere are some simple snack ideas that pack a nutritional punch with both protein and fiber:Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nuts: Mix Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and a handful of nuts. It's a protein-rich, satisfying snack.Avocado Toast: Spread mashed avocado on whole-grain toast. Top with sliced tomatoes or a poached egg for extra flavor and nutrients.Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Carrot and celery sticks with hummus provide fiber and protein. Consider adding bell peppers for color and variety.Cheese and Whole-Grain Crackers: Pair your favorite cheese with whole-grain crackers. This combination offers a fulfilling taste and essential calcium.Oatmeal with Fruits and Nuts: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh fruits and nuts makes for a fiber-rich, heartwarming snack.Each of these snacks is versatile. For example, Greek yogurt can be replaced with plain yogurt to cut sugars, and you can opt for gluten-free crackers if needed.Nutritious Ingredients to Keep on HandHaving the right ingredients on hand makes healthy snacking easy. Some must-haves include whole grains like oats and brown rice, fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, and berries, vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, nuts and seeds such as almonds and chia seeds, and dairy or dairy alternatives like Greek yogurt and cheese. These ingredients are not only nutritious but also adaptable to many recipes. Store fresh fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator to extend their life. For nuts and grains, keep them in airtight containers to preserve freshness.Tips for Encouraging Healthy Snacking HabitsMaking healthy snacks appealing can sometimes be a challenge. To encourage better eating habits, offer a variety of snacks to prevent boredom by mixing different flavors, textures, and colors. Set regular snack times and pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating. Caregivers should also snack on healthful foods to set a positive example. Engaging seniors in the snack-preparation process can also make healthy eating more enjoyable and boost their interest in nutritious foods.Snack Smart and Stay Cozy This WinterIncorporating nutritious snacks into seniors' daily routines has numerous benefits, from boosting immunity to improving energy levels. Caregivers should not overlook their own nutritional needs, as their health is necessary to provide the best care. By prioritizing wholesome snacking habits, both seniors and caregivers can enjoy better well-being throughout the winter months. For personalized care and support in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Wellington, Windsor, Estes Park, and Longmont, contact Senior Helpers Greeley today.
Meal planning or meal prepping isnt just a new fadits something thats always existed in one way or another. Now, its becoming extremely popular as more and more people discover its benefits, particularly for seniors at home.For aging adults in particular, meal planning can be the key to unlocking better long-term health, an improved attitude, and saving precious time throughout the day. If you arent already one of the 280 million people watching meal-prepping guides on TikTok, then heres exactly how you can get started:Prepping in AdvanceMeal planning is all about establishing a routine. Help your loved one maintain a healthy diet, allocating one day a week to plan and prepare meals for the next six days to follow. Use this time to cook, cut and pack food in advance so you arent breaking routine or rushing throughout the week. During prep time, also be sure to consider size and space. Invest in storage-friendly, space-saving containers so that you dont make a batch of meals with nowhere to put them. Not only is your day one the key to avoiding cooking time later on, but its also what helps you avoid wasting time guessing what your next meal will be. Identify the Foods That MatterThe key to healthy meal prepping is obviously choosing healthy foods! Help your loved one identify meals that hit the major food groups including fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and whole grainswithout sacrificing on flavor.When meal planning for an aging adult in particular, try to choose foods with little sugar, sodium and saturated fats. Also look for easily digestible options with key vitamins and minerals like cereals with B12. Keep It SimpleYou dont need to be a professional chef to create a healthy meal plan. Choose recipes that are easy to prepare and require fewer, less expensive ingredients. Foods that you can cook in bulk are the backbone of most meal plans. If youre looking for inspiration, dont hesitate to look online and find pre-existing meal plan menus, like this. Variety and FlexibilityEven though you should establish a solid routine and use simpler recipes when meal planning, this isnt meant to be a prison menu! Cook enough options to keep your palate from becoming bored and try to spread out your more diverse meals throughout the week. If you arent particularly interested in the next item on your menu, you can substitute or change things around. Listen to Your BodyWhile the National Institute of Health does have a recommended calorie intake of 2000-2500 calories per day, ultimately, everyones body is different. In week one of planning if you find yourself hungry between meals, incorporate larger portions into week two. Remember though, as you add more calories, youll need to add more nutrient-rich foods as well to keep your diet balanced. Utilize Outside ResourcesMeal planning ultimately saves time and effort, but its still a commitment in itself with its own unique learning curve. Consult friends and family who have had success in the past, watch videos on social media or speak to a dietitian about what they recommend.If you or an aging loved one is struggling to meal prep because of physical limitations, there are also plenty of outside solutions to that as well. SYNERGY HomeCare has a team of professional, around-the-clock caregivers who are more than capable of helping you prepare meals and get them packed up for the week to come. To learn more about SYNERGY HomeCare and its full suite of services, please call 877-432-2692.
Why choose Comfort Keepers? Quick response to your needs, we answer our phone 24/7 by a staff member, national and current background check, personality and competency testing, on- going education, nurse oversight, telephony system that let us know your caregiver has arrived are just a few things we are invested in to provide you with the peace of mind that your loved one is well cared for. NEW!! Services to disabled Uranium miners, millers and haulers at no out of pocket cost. Medication management, Electronic monitoring and med dispensers are available.Comfort Keepers provides award-winning in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities. Our highly trained and dedicated caregivers can help your loved one stay in their home for as long as safely possiblea dream come true for many elders.As a leading provider of home care services, our expert caregivers provide customized care plans crafted to clients' individual recovery needs and daily living requirements throughout the Colorado Western Slope. These services focus on elevating the human spirit with meaningful companion care that accentuates independent living. The primary care services that our experienced caregivers - that we call Comfort Keepers - provide may include personal care, long-term care, 24/7 around-the-clock care, and companionship care. We help older adults of retirement age and beyond, as well as other adults, live an independent, quality life in the safety and comfort of their home. Family members do not need to consider assisted living facilities, independent living communities, or nursing homes, as their senior loved ones can receive the personal care they need at home.As a leading provider of non-medical home care services we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors and individuals who need assistance with daily activities. Our mission is to provide compassionate, professional, and personalized care that allows our clients to maintain their independence and stay comfortably in their own homes.At Comfort Keepers, we understand the importance of home for our clients. Home is where they feel safe, secure, and comfortable. Thats why we offer a comprehensive range of non-medical home care services designed to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our services include personal care, companionship, housekeeping, and specialized care for individuals with Alzheimers and dementia.Our personal care services are tailored to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility assistance. Our trained caregivers are dedicated to providing respectful and dignified care, ensuring that our clients feel comfortable and supported at all times. We understand that these tasks can be challenging for many seniors, and our goal is to make them as easy and stress-free as possible.Companionship is a cornerstone of our non-medical home care services. At Comfort Keepers in Grand Junction, we believe that social interaction and emotional support are vital to overall well-being. Our caregivers provide friendly and engaging companionship, whether its sharing a meal, playing a game, or simply having a meaningful conversation. This companionship helps combat loneliness and isolation, promoting mental and emotional health.Maintaining a clean and organized home environment is essential for the well-being of our clients. Our housekeeping services include light cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, and other household chores. By taking care of these tasks, we allow our clients to focus on enjoying their time and maintaining their independence without the burden of household responsibilities.Specialized care for individuals with Alzheimers and dementia is another crucial aspect of our services. Our caregivers are trained to provide compassionate and patient care for clients with cognitive impairments. We use techniques and activities that are designed to stimulate memory and cognitive function, helping our clients to stay engaged and connected. Our approach to dementia care is personalized and flexible, adapting to the changing needs of each individual.Comfort Keepers in Grand Junction also offers respite care, providing family caregivers with a much-needed break. Caring for a loved one can be demanding, and its important for family caregivers to take time for themselves. Our respite care services allow family members to rest and recharge, knowing that their loved one is in capable and caring hands.Our commitment to quality care is evident in everything we do. We carefully select and train our caregivers to ensure they meet our high standards of professionalism and compassion. Each caregiver undergoes a thorough background check and receives ongoing training to stay current with the best practices in non-medical home care. We match our caregivers with clients based on their needs and preferences, fostering positive and lasting relationships.At Comfort Keepers, we believe in a holistic approach to care. This means addressing not just the physical needs of our clients, but also their emotional, social, and mental well-being. Our Interactive Caregiving philosophy is at the heart of our approach. This unique model encourages active participation from our clients in their own care, promoting independence and engagement. By involving clients in their care, we help them maintain a sense of purpose and control over their lives.Located in the vibrant community of Grand Junction, Comfort Keepers is proud to serve seniors and families throughout the area. Our local knowledge and community involvement enable us to provide care that is tailored to the specific needs of our clients. We work closely with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and families to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach to care.Choosing the right non-medical home care provider is an important decision. At Comfort Keepers in Grand Junction, we are dedicated to making that choice easier by providing exceptional care and support. Our team is here to answer any questions, provide information, and help families navigate the process of arranging home care services. We are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our clients and their families.Discover the Comfort Keepers difference and contact us today to learn more about our services, schedule a free in-home consultation, and find out how we can help you or your loved one live a more comfortable, independent, and fulfilling life at home.Contact us through one of our offices in Delta/Montrose at 970-240-4121 or our main office in Grand Junction at 970-241-8818
With the use of CareLink MobileHelp, Comfort Keepers provides a simple solution to many accidents and medical emergencies. CareLink MobileHelp is a medicalalert system that works nationwide, beyond the home with all the same features as traditional in-home systems. CareLink MobileHelp keeps you connected to a live monitoring center regardless of your location. You can have the freedom to continue participating in the activities that you enjoy in and outside your home, knowing that you are always accompanied by a highly efficient medical alert system.
With the use of CareLink MobileHelp, Comfort Keepers provides a simple solution to many accidents and medical emergencies. CareLink MobileHelp is a medicalalert system that works nationwide, beyond the home with all the same features as traditional in-home systems. CareLink MobileHelp keeps you connected to a live monitoring center regardless of your location. You can have the freedom to continue participating in the activities that you enjoy in and outside your home, knowing that you are always accompanied by a highly efficient medical alert system.