Food Insecurity: A Growing Concern for Older Adults

Most people associate malnutrition with third world countries, but it's also a danger for seniors, and more prevalent among older Americans than we realize.One out of every two older adults is at risk of becoming malnourished.We all know that we feel better when we eat well. Good eating habits, and being mindful of healthy eating goals, can improve mental and physical health, and give us the energy we need to do the activities we love. Unfortunately, too many seniors are not having their nutritional needs met. Changes in our bodies as we age, and changing dietary needs, can make healthy eating more difficult for older adults. 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.The health risks associated with malnutrition can be especially concerning for seniors. Symptoms can include:Weakened immune systemPoor wound healingMuscle weaknessWeight lossDental issuesIf engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps anyone can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns, 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 look like making something healthy and delicious for others or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them your company.Make healthy eating fit your budget  Good food doesnt 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 you know has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just arent 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.For those concerned about their nutrition, or the eating habits of a senior loved one, speaking to a medical professional is critical. Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and support for physician-prescribed diets. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. 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.

Volunteering can be an extremely beneficial and rewarding activity for both the recipients and the volunteers themselves. It doesnt have to be complicated or stressful, instead many senior communities make it simple and tailored to each persons schedule and availability. It can even help reduce stress, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. The benefits of volunteering are never-ending and can be surprising you will start to develop new skills and build upon your own personal experiences. It sheds light on what great people there are in the world and is key in building relationships and making communities even stronger.To find the right volunteering opportunity for you, begin by considering your interests and goals, alongside determining how much time you want to dedicate. The opportunity for volunteers is vast and always appreciated there is something for everyone! In senior living communities, volunteers build relationships with residents and help guide them through specific activities while enhancing their day-to-day social interactions. Volunteers are a great addition to senior care staff, as they bring unique conversations and expertise to different activities. This creates deep connections and shared social experiences with the residents.Whether you are donating your time or other resources, volunteering truly makes a difference to our seniors. Elder Angels supports volunteer opportunities to continue the upward momentum of senior wellness in our area!Ready to Explore Your Options?Talk to one of our consultants today about the many exciting options available for you.Call us at 970-988-1132

Why Brain Health Is EssentialBrain health impacts every aspect of our lives. A healthy brain ensures: Sharp Cognitive Function: Supporting learning, problem-solving, and decision-making. Resilient Memory: Helping us retain and recall important information. Emotional Stability: Allowing us to navigate challenges and maintain mental well-being. Physical Coordination: Facilitating essential tasks like walking, speaking, and balance. Neglecting brain health can lead to difficulties in daily life, including forgetfulness, confusion, or susceptibility to neurological disorders such as Alzheimers or dementia. Lifestyle Habits to Promote Brain Health Physical Activity Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients. Regular activities like walking, cycling, or yoga can improve memory and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Brain-Boosting Nutrition A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients is critical for brain health: Fatty Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain cell health. Colorful Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress. Whole Grains: Provide steady energy for optimal brain performance. Nuts and Seeds: Offer healthy fats and vitamin E to support cognitive function. Cognitive Stimulation Keep your brain active with activities that challenge its capacity, such as: Learning a new language or skill. Solving puzzles, crosswords, or playing chess. Engaging in creative hobbies like painting or music. Quality Sleep Sleep is vital for memory consolidation and mental clarity. Aim for 79 hours of sleep each night, and maintain a regular sleep schedule to support overall brain health. Stress Management Chronic stress negatively affects the brain, shrinking areas responsible for memory and decision-making. Stress-reducing practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can help maintain mental balance. Social Connections Strong social ties contribute to emotional well-being and cognitive longevity. Spend time with family, join clubs or groups, and maintain regular interactions with friends to stay mentally and socially engaged. Avoid Harmful Substances Limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco products can protect the brain from long-term damage and cognitive decline. Preventing Cognitive DeclineWhile aging is inevitable, cognitive decline is not. Steps to reduce its risk include: Monitoring Health: Manage conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol, as they can impact brain function. Mental Health Care: Address issues like anxiety or depression, which may impair cognition if left untreated. Regular Check-Ups: Work with healthcare providers to screen for early signs of neurological disorders. The Lifelong Benefits of LearningContinuing to learn throughout life keeps the brain adaptable and engaged. Whether its pursuing a hobby, attending workshops, or taking online courses, lifelong learning fosters new neural connections and helps preserve cognitive health.