For more information about the author, click to view their website: Anthology of the Plaza
Getting proper nutrition is important at every age. Eating healthy keeps energy levels high, controls weight and supports better sleep. A healthy diet can also help to prevent some diseases, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis, certain cancers and type 2 diabetes.
For many older adults, eating healthy may be important, but the act of eating loses its appeal. Many seniors report experiencing a loss of appetite. While some medications may contribute to not feeling hungry, there are many other reasons an older adult may lose interest in food. Here are the top eight:
Not getting enough exercise
Dehydration
Loss of taste
Feeling bored at mealtimes
Not having a routine
Difficulty with swallowing or chewing
Loneliness or depression
Lack of ability to prepare meals
When families seek a senior living community for their loved one, the quality of the dining experience is often one of the most important factors. It is good that families recognize the importance of senior nutrition and senior living dining experiences, because studies show that up to 60% of a resident’s day revolves around mealtimes.
Senior living dining services teams at communities across the country are responsible for creating menus, serving residents, collecting residents’ input and working closely with dietitians, physicians and chefs to create healthy culinary selections and menu choices. For example, at Anthology of Northville and all the Anthology Senior Living communities, the Executive Chef pairs senior living dining trends with expertise in senior health and nutrition to prepare meals tailored specifically for each resident. And, with snack options available all day and night, food is always fun and accessible.
When considering a senior living community for yourself or a loved one, the senior dining experience should be a top priority. Taking a tour at mealtime allows the opportunity to sample the food, check out the menu choices and ask questions about food availability and diet considerations. Many senior living communities have on-site chefs and nutritionists or dietitians to help address senior nutrition needs. With an understanding of the challenges many seniors face at mealtime, such as loss of taste and changes in taste due to certain medications, senior living menu choices are created to keep the food full of flavor and to meet the specific needs of each resident. Communities are also able to accommodate specific diets and senior nutrition preferences, including low-sodium needs, non-dairy requirements, vegetarian preferences and low-sugar requirements.
Senior living residents are more likely to desire flexibility, both in menu choices and in their choice of dining venues. This means that providers need to ensure that the senior living dining experiences they offer are truly extraordinary, as well as nutritious. Senior living communities, like Anthology of Simsbury, have answered this call by introducing a host of different senior dining options:
Gone are the days of the one-size-fits-all senior living dining room. Now, many communities offer their residents dining venues that serve on demand, like grab-and-go cafés, bistros and coffee shops.
Senior living residents are adults—and they’ve lived full lives. It’s much more common nowadays for senior living providers to recognize and celebrate that by building full-service pubs and wine bars in their communities.
Some senior living communities have embraced the idea of growing and eating local fare. Community residents now eat a wide variety of produce that is grown locally and picked out by the community’s chef.
Dining together promotes healthy eating for seniors, especially for those living alone. This is because people naturally eat more around others and make better food choices. Often, seniors feel that cooking a big, healthy meal for one is too difficult and pointless, so they turn to prepackaged or frozen foods – or worse, they skip meals altogether.
Senior living communities, like Anthology of Olathe, recognize the importance of eating together, and many offer restaurant-style dining with a variety of well-balanced, healthy meals prepared by professional chefs. Residents who eat together have the opportunity to talk about the events of the day, recalling memories of eating with their families. New friendships often form, and relationships grow while sitting around the table together.
Most importantly, the best senior living communities offer venues where residents and their family members WANT to come and enjoy the experience. After all, food always tastes better when it’s with family.
Taking the full senior dining experiences of residents into account is a large part of what makes the senior dining program at Anthology Senior Living so special.
To create senior dining experiences that raise an interest in food, promote a social atmosphere, consider dietary needs and restrictions, and create an inviting feel, the team at Anthology works closely with chefs, nutritionists, dietitians and physicians; this collaboration has created the Entice Dining program. Each Executive Chef of the Anthology Entice Dining program recognizes the importance of tailoring distinctive, unique recipes for each resident’s needs.
At Anthology of Tuckahoe and each Anthology community, residents can enjoy a drink or sandwich in the pub with friends, share a new dish with family in the elegant dining room or simply sample a fresh-baked cookie in the bistro! Other Anthology senior dining experiences include:
New menus developed regularly
Dishes that meet residents’ nutritional needs
Food that inspires the taste buds and is easy to enjoy
Seasonal dishes and local favorites that are nutritionally rewarding
Healthy snacks available throughout the day and night
At Anthology Senior Living, our care is based on supporting every aspect of our residents’ health – emotional, physical and mental. From our kitchen team to our fitness instructors and landscapers, every member of our team is committed to caregiving. Anthology Senior Living is able to care for residents and their families across a wide spectrum of needs and throughout the aging process. Anthology offers three levels of care: independent living, assisted living or personal care, and memory care.
All of Anthology Senior Living’s assisted living communities provide warm, dynamic care in a supportive, engaging environment. The team at Anthology manages everything to allow our assisted living residents to enjoy each day to its fullest. At all our communities, we provide housekeeping services, linen services, laundry and groundskeeping. Additionally, our highly certified care managers work closely with doctors and specialists, utilizing smart technology, to coordinate all resident care.
Interested in finding an Anthology Senior Living community near you? Visit our community finder to learn about all our locations!
As we age, our nutritional needs changebut the importance of eating well never does. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help older adults maintain energy, support brain function, strengthen bones, manage chronic conditions, and boost immunity. Healthy eating doesnt have to be complicated, its about making small, consistent choices that nourish the body and promote overall well-being.Here are some practical and easy-to-follow healthy eating tips tailored to older adults: 1. Focus on Nutrient-Dense FoodsAs metabolism slows with age, the body needs fewer calories but more nutrients. Prioritize foods that pack a nutritional punch without empty calories. Choose fruits and vegetables in a variety of colors for a range of vitamins and antioxidants. Opt for whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread for fiber and sustained energy. Include lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, and fish. Add healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fishlike salmon. 2. Watch Portion SizesOlder adults often need fewer calories than they did in their younger years. Be mindful of portion sizes and aim to listen to your bodys hunger and fullness cues. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help manage appetite and blood sugar levels. 3. Stay HydratedDehydration is common in seniors because the sense of thirst often decreases with age. Make a habit of drinking water regularly throughout the day, even if you dont feel thirsty. Flavor water with fruit slices or herbs for variety. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks, which can dehydrate or add empty calories. Include hydrating foods like cucumbers, melons, and soups. 4. Prioritize Bone HealthAs bones naturally lose density over time, its important to consume enough calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone strength. Choose low-fat dairy products, fortified plant-based milk, leafy greens, and canned salmon with bones. Talk to your doctor about whether a vitamin D supplement is right for you, especially if you spend limited time in the sun. 5. Limit Added Sugar and SaltToo much sugar and sodium can increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Read food labels and aim for low-sodium and no-added-sugar options. Season meals with herbs, spices, or lemon juice instead of salt. Swap sweets for naturally sweet fruits like berries, apples, or grapes. 6. Eat Fiber-Rich FoodsFiber supports digestion, helps prevent constipation, and can lower cholesterol levels. Include beans, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts in your meals. Gradually increase fiber and drink plenty of fluids to help your body adjust. 7. Dont Skip MealsSkipping meals can lead to dips in blood sugar, fatigue, and overeating later in the day. Try to eat regular meals and snacks to maintain steady energy and avoid nutrient deficiencies. 8. Pay Attention to Dental HealthDental problems can make chewing difficult, which may lead to avoiding healthy foods. Choose softer, easy-to-chew options like: Cooked vegetables Soft fruits (bananas, applesauce) Ground or shredded meat Smoothies, soups, and stews If you wear dentures or experience mouth pain, talk to your dentist about comfortable food options. 9. Enjoy Your MealsEating should be a pleasant and social experience. Make mealtime enjoyable by: Sharing meals with family, friends, or neighbors Trying new recipes or healthy versions of favorite dishes Eating in a well-lit, calm environment At Avondale Care Group of Pennsylvania our services are fully customizable, allowing us to create a care plan that perfectly matches your personal routines and preferences.
Staying hydrated is essential for everyone, but its especially critical for older adults. As we age, our bodies go through changes that can increase the risk of dehydrationyet many seniors are unaware of just how important proper hydration is for their health and well-being.Why Seniors Are More Prone to DehydrationThere are several reasons why older adults are at higher risk for dehydration: Reduced Sense of Thirst: Aging can dull the bodys natural thirst signals, meaning seniors may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need water. Medications: Diuretics, laxatives, and certain blood pressure or heart medications can cause increased fluid loss. Decreased Kidney Function: As kidneys age, they become less efficient at conserving water, increasing fluid loss. Mobility or Cognitive Issues: Physical limitations or cognitive decline may make it harder to access water or remember to drink throughout the day. Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and other medical issues common in older adults can contribute to dehydration risk. The Impact of Dehydration on Senior HealthEven mild dehydration can have significant effects on a seniors health, including: Fatigue and Weakness: Dehydration can lead to low energy levels and muscle weakness, increasing fall risk. Confusion and Cognitive Decline: Lack of fluids may cause symptoms that mimic dementia or worsen existing cognitive issues. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Inadequate hydration can lead to more frequent UTIs, which can be serious in older adults. Constipation: Water helps keep the digestive system movingwithout enough, seniors may struggle with bowel issues. Kidney Stones and Damage: Chronic dehydration can contribute to kidney problems. Tips to Help Seniors Stay HydratedEncouraging proper hydration doesnt have to be complicated. Here are some practical tips: Set a Routine: Encourage drinking water with each meal and between meals. Setting reminders or using a water-tracking app can help. Offer a Variety of Fluids: Water is best, but herbal teas, milk, and broth-based soups count, too. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks. Make It Appealing: Infuse water with fruit slices or herbs like mint to add flavor without extra sugar. Monitor Intake: Caregivers and family members should watch for signs of dehydration and gently encourage regular fluid intake. Choose Hydrating Foods: Water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and lettuce can help supplement fluid intake. Watch for Warning SignsIts important to recognize early signs of dehydration in seniors, such as: Dry mouth or cracked lips Dark urine or reduced urination Dizziness or lightheadedness Confusion or irritability Fatigue Headaches Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and may require hospitalization for IV fluids and close monitoring.
Of the 32 counties we support in Colorado, 13 are located west of the Continental Divide and served by our phenomenal team in Grand Junction. Through mobile pantries and partnerships with more than 110 Hunger Relief Partners in this region, our team is able to meet the specific needs of these communities and bring food where it is needed most. We know that budgets can be stretched thin these days, so by leveraging the power of community and through programs like Everyday Eats for Older Adults, Food for Kids, mobile pantries, and more, Food Bank of the Rockies provides food to 1 in 9 people facing hunger in Colorado.Need a referral to your local food pantry? Do you want to apply for SNAP benefits? Want to learn more about our programs? Interested in volunteering or making a donation? We would love to hear from you! To contact us, please call 970-464-1138 or 877-953-3937 (toll-free) or visit foodbankrockies.org. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Food Bank of the Rockies. For more information, please call 303-371-9250.