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Meal planning or meal prepping isn’t just a new fad—it’s
something that’s always existed in one way or another. Now, it’s 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 aren’t already one of the 280 million
people watching meal-prepping guides on TikTok, then here’s exactly how
you can get started:
Prepping in Advance
Meal 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 aren’t 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 don’t
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 it’s also what helps you avoid wasting time guessing what your
next meal will be.
Identify the Foods That Matter
The 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 grains—without
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 Simple
You don’t 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 you’re looking for inspiration, don’t hesitate to look
online and find pre-existing meal plan menus, like this.
Variety and Flexibility
Even though you should establish a solid routine and use
simpler recipes when meal planning, this isn’t 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 aren’t particularly interested in the next item on
your menu, you can substitute or change things around.
Listen to Your Body
While the National Institute of Health does
have a recommended calorie intake of 2000-2500 calories per day, ultimately,
everyone’s 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, you’ll need to
add more nutrient-rich foods as well to keep your diet balanced.
Utilize Outside Resources
Meal planning ultimately saves time and effort, but it’s
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.
Caring Gifts Enhance Senior Comfort and Joy Holiday gifting is more than just an exchange of itemsit can profoundly impact the well-being of seniors. Thoughtful presents can bring emotional joy, improve mental health, and even contribute to physical well-being. Whether youre showing appreciation or providing support, here are some holiday gift ideas that truly resonate with care needs and provide physical and mental benefits to seniors: Emotional Connection and Reduced Loneliness in SeniorsReceiving a gift, especially one chosen with care, can remind seniors that they are loved and valued. This emotional boost can: Reduce feelings of isolation: Gifts that encourage interaction, like video-calling devices or visit-focused items, help strengthen social bonds. Foster a sense of belonging: Personalized or nostalgic gifts often stir positive memories and provide a sense of continuity and connection. Promote happiness: Even small gestures, like a handwritten note or a bouquet of flowers, can uplift their mood and combat feelings of depression. Aromatherapy diffusers that distribute essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can create a calming environment. Enhanced Cognitive Engagement for Aging AdultsSome gifts encourage mental stimulation, which is vital for maintaining cognitive health. These include: Puzzles, games, and brain-training tools: Engaging in these activities keeps the mind active and sharp. Books and music: Exploring new ideas or enjoying old favorites can rekindle interests and improve focus. Streaming service subscriptions: Provide access to movies, shows, and documentaries for relaxation or bonding time. Physical Comfort and Well-Being for Senior HealthGifts designed for comfort or physical support can ease everyday challenges, contributing to a seniors overall health. For example: Comfort items like blankets and ergonomic pillows: These provide warmth and support, reducing aches and pains. Lightweight but warm blankets can help keep seniors comfortable without feeling heavy. Health tools like fitness trackers or massage devices: They encourage physical activity and promote relaxation, improving circulation and mobility. Slippers with non-slip soles: Safe and cozy footwear ensures comfort while reducing the risk of falls. Boosted Self-Worth and Senior IndependencePractical gifts can empower seniors by making daily tasks easier, giving them a renewed sense of control and independence. For instance: Adaptive clothing: Simplifies dressing and enhances confidence. Medication organizers: Helps seniors manage their health independently, fostering self-reliance. Meal Delivery Services: Nutritious, ready-to-eat meals can ease the burden of cooking for both seniors and caregivers. Voice-controlled assistants: Smart home devices can assist with reminders, weather updates, or music, making life easier. Strengthened Family Ties with EldersReceiving gifts from family members is a tangible reminder of love and care, creating opportunities for: Quality time together: Items like board games or meal kits can spark shared activities. Meaningful conversations: Nostalgic gifts or those tied to shared memories often lead to storytelling and bonding. User-friendly tablets or phones: Devices with simplified interfaces help seniors stay connected with family and friends. The Holistic Value of Gifting to Senior Loved OnesGifts are not just material objectsthey symbolize thoughtfulness and care, carrying emotional weight that resonates long after the unwrapping. For seniors, this can mean renewed joy, increased motivation to stay engaged in life, and better mental and physical health.When choosing gifts for seniors, remember its not the cost that matters most, but the meaning behind the gesture. A well-chosen gift can provide emotional comfort, foster physical ease, and remind them they are cherished, making an enduring impact on their well-being.By choosing items that cater to their specific needs, youre giving them more than a present; youre giving them a sense of support and acknowledgment. How Amada Senior Care Can HelpAt Amada Senior Care, we are dedicated to the safety and well-being of seniors. Our caregivers are trained to provide companionship and safety guidance during the busy holiday season. By staying vigilant and informed, seniors can experience the joys of the season without falling victim to scams. Lets work together to make this holiday season merry, bright, and safe for all.Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your loved ones during the holidays and beyond. Amada Senior Care of Mobile and Baldwin is here to help. Contact us at 251-305-4500
How We Help Veterans Age with Dignity and RespectTransitioning from military to civilian life can be a complex journey for veterans, filled with various challenges. Many face difficulties such as adapting to new social environments, managing mental health issues, and navigating healthcare systems. Understanding these needs is crucial for providing the right support, and that's where Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder steps in. Our team is dedicated to serving those who have bravely served our country.Veterans often experience unique struggles, including health concerns and emotional challenges stemming from their service. Whether it's post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), physical injuries, or difficulty adjusting to civilian life, these veterans require understanding and compassion. We believe that dignity and respect are fundamental in veteran care. Our team is committed to fostering an environment where veterans feel valued and supported as they navigate this new chapter of their lives.Our Veteran Care ServicesTo meet the diverse needs of veterans, Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder provides a range of specialized home care services. From personal assistance with daily activities to medication administration and more, our veteran care services are designed to address both physical and mental health needs. Understanding that each veteran's experience is different, our caregivers work closely with clients to ensure they receive tailored support that promotes their overall well-being.We recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach doesnt work for veterans. Thats why we develop personalized care plans that cater to the individual needs of each veteran we assist. Our caregivers take the time to understand their clients' specific circumstances and preferences, creating customized solutions that can include anything from assistance with household tasks to companionship during social outings.Support for Families of VeteransThe transition to civilian life affects not only veterans but their families as well. We provide essential support to veterans' families during this challenging period. We offer resources and guidance to help family members understand the challenges their loved one's face and how best to support them. Our network includes connections to various support groups, counseling services, and educational resources that can help families navigate this journey together.Why Choose Us?When it comes to choosing care services, veterans have options, but Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder stands out with our commitment to quality and compassion. Our professional caregivers are trained to provide not just physical care but also emotional support, creating a holistic approach to wellness. We encourage families to contact us online or call (844) 908-3819 today and schedule a consultation call with our team.The journey from military to civilian life is filled with challenges, but with the right support and care, veterans can thrive. We're honored to serve those who have served us. Let us partner with you in this journey, providing the compassionate care and support that every veteran deserves.
A Parkinsons diagnosis is a life-changing event it changes daily routines, long-term plans and can often become a job in itself to navigate, but still, it is manageable. According to the Parkinsons Foundation, nearly one million Americans are currently living with the diagnosis, and as many of them can attest, its entirely possible to live full, happy, healthy lives. While there are some extra hoops to jump through when dealing with a Parkinsons diagnosis, family caregivers play an important role, especially when understanding how to care for someone with Parkinsons disease.Below are some key takeaways to guide you in supporting a loved one living with Parkinsons.Offering Emotional SupportBefore you offer hands-on assistance, offer emotional support and use your loved ones feelings to gauge how much theyd like to be helped. Encourage, dont nag. Instill confidence in your loved one by encouraging them to continue their everyday routine post-diagnosis, but dont pester them to do tasks that they feel averse to. Be observant, but not overbearing. Its okay to watch and see how independent your loved one can be, but dont jump straight in and take control of their daily lives. Embrace and normalize the diagnosis. Nearly one million other Americans are dealing with similar circumstances. Remind your loved one that they arent alone. Offering Physical SupportThe level of physical help that you should offer is going to be an evolving fine line. Its vital that you dont let a loved one feel robbed of their independence, but its also important that they receive the physical help they need. Start small with: Involving the person in your daily tasks. Invite them to come visit, go on car rides, come grocery shopping, or even just watch TV. Gently encouraging everyday exercise. Try to find hobbies that can keep them on their feet without making it feel like a doctors prescription. Try gardening, daily walks or light workouts like swimming or yoga. Managing a healthy diet. Dont overlook what your loved one is putting into their body. Suggest balanced meals with plenty of calcium to combat fragile bones, fiber to minimize constipation and other necessary nutrients. As symptoms progress, your assistance will likely evolve to tasks such as: Helping with household chores. It may fall on you to keep the house in order with things like cooking, cleaning or staying on top of laundry. If you notice the house in disarray, act without being asked. Eliminate tripping hazards and move furniture to allow for easy access. Helping with grooming and dressing. Your loved one will likely need help with things like getting in and out of bed, getting in and out of the shower, and putting on certain pieces of clothing. To minimize how much help youll need to offer, consider clothes with Velcro or elastic waistbands, buy shower stools, and keep in mind that stand-in showers are much easier to navigate. Offering Mental SupportWhile most mental impairments related to Parkinsons dont manifest until later in the diagnosis, the earlier stages still come with plenty of considerations that can leave your loved one feeling burnt out or mentally exhausted. You can help to manage this by:Reminding them of medications. Its difficult to memorize a new routine, especially when it involves specific dosages and administration times. Gently remind or ask if theyre on top of their medication. Offer to create a calendar for administration times on their phone or make a note somewhere in the house, but again, dont be too overbearing.Attending their doctors appointments. Not only will your loved ones appreciate you getting them to the doctor, but theyll also be thankful for the mental load that your presence can alleviate. You can be an extra set of ears to note what the doctor says, and you can relay this information if your loved one forgets later on. Note the progression of their symptoms. If you notice a new symptom for the first time, write it down. This can provide a concrete timeline for you and your loved ones care team to work with.
Because we C.A.R.E.! We are the only non-medical home care company with the proprietary C.A.R.E. Team approach. At SYNERGY HomeCare, C.A.R.E. stands for Coordinated And Responsive Engagement and we dont just provide home care, we provide solutions! If youre like most people, youre looking for the best care available for yourself and your family. As your loved ones experience the physical and emotional effects of aging such as memory-related disorders (dementia and Alzheimers), illness or injury, youre seeking reassurance that their safety, comfort, dignity and well-being will be protected as they continue to live independently in their homes. SYNERGY HomeCare opens the door to peace of mind by providing the high quality care your loved ones deserve.