Senior Meals Provide Nutrition and Community Support

Posted on

Nov 05, 2018

Share This
Cooking for one or even two, presents challenges as we age. It can be dif?cult to shop and prepare healthy, well-balanced meals on a daily basis. Did you know the Older Americans Act provides grants to State and community senior organizations to help provide a healthy, well-balanced meals for older adults?
Through the Community dining and home delivered meal programs, seniors struggling with isolation and loneliness or those who have difficulty buying or preparing meals for themselves have two great options! Older adults who have transportationcan get a healthy meal and spend time with friends in a community dining setting. Homebound seniors, unable to shop, prepare or obtain meals, can also receive a nutritious meals delivered to their homes up to five days per week, often by a friendly volunteer. Community dining meals and those offered to homebound older adults are approved by Registered Dietitians and provide 1/3 of the daily nutrition needs of the average older adult. Older Adults must be 60 and older to qualify to receive meals or be a disabled person or spouse residing with an eligible individual. There is no income or asset requirementfor community dining or home delivered meals. A suggested donation is requested and appreciated for all meals, however it is also not required. No one is denied a meal if unable or unwilling to contribute. While the importance of offering nutritious meals to older adults cannot be overstated, having the opportunity to join others for a meal in a community setting is a great way to get out of the house and see other people. No one likes to eat alone and having the ability to join others who are the same age, with a similar history and experiences can make for an enjoyable dining experience!

For homebound seniors, having a friendly face greet them each day while delivering a nutritious meal, can be something to look forward to and serve as a daily well-being check. For more information on Community and home delivered meals, a contact list has been provided. If your County is not represented on this list, please call your local Agency on Aging and they will be able to assist you.

Editors Note: This article was submitted by Leslie Edstrom, Community Planning Division Manager for The Agency on Aging Northeastern Illinois. Leslie has a Masters Degree in Public Administration with a specialization in Gerontology.

Other Articles You May Like

Senior Nutrition: Eating Right for a Healthy Lifestyle

Aging is a natural part of life, and as we grow older, our nutritional needs change. A well-balanced diet is essential for seniors to maintain good health, boost energy levels, and prevent various health issues. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of senior nutrition and provide valuable tips on how to eat right for a healthy lifestyle in your golden years.Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals without excess calories. Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. These foods offer a wide range of nutrients that support overall health.Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial, especially as we age. Dehydration can lead to various health complications. Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day and include hydrating foods like soups, fruits, and vegetables in your meals.Mindful Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. As metabolism slows down with age, it's essential to consume appropriate portions to maintain a healthy weight. Use smaller plates and bowls to help control portion sizes.Limit Processed Foods and Sugars: Minimize the intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and sweetened beverages. These items are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. Opt for natural, whole foods instead.Include Adequate Protein: Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and promoting overall strength. Include sources of lean protein such as poultry, fish, beans, and low-fat dairy products in your diet. Protein-rich foods aid in repairing tissues and supporting a healthy immune system.Incorporate Calcium and Vitamin D: Calcium and vitamin D are vital for bone health, especially for seniors. Include low-fat dairy products, fortified plant-based milks, green leafy vegetables, and sunlight exposure to ensure you're getting an adequate amount of these nutrients.Be Mindful of Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary restrictions or health conditions, consult a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized guidance to meet your nutritional needs while managing any health concerns.Enjoy Social Meals: Eating meals with family and friends can make the dining experience enjoyable and satisfying. Social meals provide not only nourishment for the body but also emotional nourishment, promoting overall well-being.Practice Safe Food Handling: Seniors are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Practice proper food safety measures, such as washing hands, cooking meats thoroughly, and storing food at safe temperatures, to prevent food-related infections.Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds to different foods. If certain foods cause discomfort or digestive issues, consider eliminating or reducing them from your diet. Everyone's body is unique, so it's essential to listen to your own cues.Incorporating these tips into your daily life can significantly enhance your nutritional intake and overall well-being as a senior. Remember, eating right is not just a diet; it's a lifestyle choice that can lead to a healthier, happier, and more vibrant you in your golden years.

13 Apps Seniors Need for Convenience and Health

In an age where technology is rapidly shaping our daily lives, its important to recognize that the benefits of digital innovation are not limited to a specific generation. Seniors are often overlooked in the fast-paced world of app development and technology. However, seniors are starting to discover the advantages of convenience apps designed to enhance their lives.These applications have the power to simplify tasks, increase access to essential services, and improve seniors independence. In this article, we will explore a range of convenience apps tailored to the unique needs and preferences of seniors, shedding light on the digital tools that are helping them lead more comfortable, connected, and fulfilling lives.Best Multifunctional Apps for Seniors A number of multifunctional apps have emerged as helpful tools for seniors. These tools offer a wide array of benefits that can enhance seniors daily lives. They also empower seniors to maintain their independence, especially if they are aging in place. Below are some of these useful multifunctional apps for seniors.GoGoGrandparentPhoto credit: GoGo GrandparentGoGoGrandparent is an over-the-phone service that helps seniors access apps for transportation, groceries, meals, medication delivery, household chores, and more. This service screens and monitors services from Uber, Instacart, DoorDash, and other companies to ensure the senior gets their needs met. With this tool, seniors can schedule rides, get groceries and meals delivered, hire someone to do household tasks, and have their prescriptions delivered straight to their home. For a senior who has difficulty driving or moving around, these services can be invaluable. By calling the phone number no smartphone required the senior can select the service they are looking for, and GoGoGrandparent will coordinate the request. An operator is available at all times to help the senior if they need it.There are different GoGoGrandparent membership packages available depending on how often the senior wishes to use the service. The most basic plan best for occasional usage is $10.39 a month. There are also three other plans available with increasing levels of services.Life360Photo credit: Life 360Life360 is the #1 family locator app and safety membership. In fact, 1 in 9 families use Life360 in the U.S. This app allows families to track one anothers locations along with location histories, arrival alerts, and emergency dispatch. It also provides driving safety services with crash detection and roadside assistance. This type of service is helpful for all families to have peace of mind about everyones safety. It is especially beneficial for seniors whose families may worry about their whereabouts, safety, and location. Google HomePhoto credit: Google HomeThe Google Home system and its accompanying app have proven to be immensely helpful tools for seniors by making everyday tasks more accessible and convenient. Through voice commands, seniors can effortlessly set reminders for medication, appointments, or important events, and access a wealth of information, from weather updates to news headlines. The app, which can be installed on smartphones or tablets, provides an intuitive interface for managing various aspects of their Google Home devices. Whether its adjusting thermostat settings, playing music, or making hands-free phone calls, Google Home offers seniors an accessible and user-friendly way to stay connected and manage their environment. This ultimately contributes to a greater sense of independence and comfort in their daily lives.Amazon AlexaPhoto credit: Amazon AlexaThe Amazon Alexa and the accompanying app are a virtual assistant technology that simplifies seniors daily routines and enhances their quality of life. With voice-activated commands, seniors can effortlessly control smart devices, set reminders, and access a plethora of information. From playing music to providing health tips, the Amazon Alexa helps seniors maintain their independence while enjoying the convenience of a voice-activated digital assistant.Ride Hailing Apps for SeniorsRide-hailing apps have emerged as lifelines for seniors who no longer drive or do not have easy access to transportation. These apps offer a user-friendly and convenient way to secure reliable rides to medical appointments, social gatherings, or everyday errands. For seniors, this newfound mobility can significantly enhance their quality of life. Having a mode of transportation helps seniors access the essential services they need, and allows them to stay connected to friends and family. Socializing is key for seniors mental and physical well-being, and having access to transportation helps make that possible. Below are some apps seniors can use to find reliable transportation.Uber and Uber AssistPhoto credit: Phone ArenaUber is one of the most well-known ride sharing apps. It can be found in every state in the US along with 10,000 cities in 72 countries around the world. In 2021, Uber reported having approximately 100,000 drivers in the state of Florida. Seniors can enter their desired destination, and an Uber driver will come pick them up and bring them where they want to go.One tool for seniors who need more help is Uber Assist. This rideshare program provides special assistance for people who might need extra assistance, including those who are older, less mobile, or have disabilities. Drivers for Uber Assist have been specially trained on helping these riders into vehicles and loading and unloading assistive devices. Seniors can access Uber Assist in the regular Uber app, as long as the service is available in the area. After entering the desired destination, simply select Assist at the bottom of the screen. This service is also available for caregivers and family members who request a ride for a senior. And, you can even schedule an Uber Assist ride in advance on the app. Uber Assist is currently available in 40 cities.    Lyft and LivelyPhoto credit: LyftLyft is another major ridesharing app. Lyft works the same as Uber people can input their desired destinations, and a car will pick them up and bring them where they wish to go. Lyft is available in all 50 states as well as 72 countries. They also offer discounted rides for low-income families and seniors to access healthy food through their Lyft Up program. Lyft has partnered with Lively to create a service just for seniors who have Jitterbug phones. Seniors can simply dial 0 on their Jitterbug phone to be connected with an operator who will schedule a ride for them. This service is available anywhere Lyft operates.Grocery and Meal Delivery Apps for SeniorsGrocery and meal delivery apps can be life changing for seniors, ensuring they have access to fresh food and prepared meals without the challenges of in-person shopping or cooking. These apps allow seniors to conveniently browse, select, and order groceries or meals from the comfort of their own homes. With doorstep delivery, seniors no longer need to worry about transportation or navigating busy stores, which can be particularly taxing for some. In fact, seniors are using food delivery services at record-breaking rates. A recent study found that in 2020, 1 in 4 seniors ordered groceries or food delivery.This technology not only simplifies seniors daily routines but also contributes to their overall well-being, offering a lifeline for those who may have limited mobility or want to avoid crowded public spaces. Food delivery tools are another way seniors can maintain their independence and quality of life. Below are some of the most prominent.InstacartPhoto credit: InstacartInstacart is a grocery delivery service that allows you to shop from your favorite grocery stores with your computer or mobile device. Simply add items to your cart and schedule your preferred delivery time, which can be as fast an hour, or even several days in advance. Then, a shopper will gather your items and deliver them straight to your door.Instacart even has a special Senior Support Service for customers over age 60. With this service, Instacart specialists help customers who may need additional assistance to set up their accounts and place grocery orders. The Senior Support Line is available in the U.S. and Canada at 18449813433, daily from 8 a.m.-11 p.m. ET. Amazon Prime and Whole Foods deliveryPhoto credit: Food Business NewsWith over 200 million members, Amazon Prime has become an exceedingly popular service. Amazon Prime is a great tool for seniors to get household items delivered straight to their home. They can even schedule the items for repeat delivery so they never need to worry about reordering items. One useful feature that comes with Amazon Prime is Whole Foods delivery. For $9.95, Amazon Prime members in select regions can order Whole Foods groceries via Amazon.com or the Amazon app, and schedule them for same-day or next-day delivery to their home. Customers can also order Whole Foods groceries for curbside pickup at no additional cost. Grocery pickup is available at 500 Whole Foods stores in the US.UberEatsPhoto credit: UberEatsFor seniors who are already familiar with the Uber app, UberEats can be a great way to have meals delivered from their favorite restaurants. The companys food-delivery platform is similar to its rideshare platform, which can be helpful to streamline the experience for seniors. DoorDashPhoto credit: AllrecipesDoorDash is widely considered the most popular food delivery service in the US. Available in about 7,000 cities, DoorDash delivers food from more than 300,000 restaurants. It also saves your previous orders to make it easy for seniors to reorder from their favorite spots.GrubhubPhoto credit: GrubhubGrubhub delivers to about 8,000 cities in the US. In Florida, Grubhub delivers groceries and household items from about 260 restaurants and stores. The platform works the same way as UberEats or DoorDash, but some believe GrubHub has a wider selection of restaurants to choose from. Health Apps for SeniorsApps related to health and wellness are another beneficial technology for senior citizens. By enhancing health awareness and accessibility to care, health apps are valuable assets that enable seniors to maintain their health as they age. Below are some popular apps for senior health.MediSafePhoto credit: BridgingAppsMediSafe is the #1 rated pill reminder app by pharmacists and physicians. The app keeps track of your medications, reminds you when to take them, and tracks when you have or have not taken them. It also provides drug interaction warnings if they occur. And, it can alert seniors caregivers of missed doses.Medication management can be a challenge for some seniors, especially those who are experiencing memory difficulties. An app like MediSafe helps seniors keep track of their pills and prevent the dangers that can come with mismanaging medication.GoodRXPhoto credit: Medcity NewsThe GoodRX app and website provide coupons that can save customers up to 80% on their prescriptions. This service also allows customers to compare prices of prescriptions across 70,000 U.S. pharmacies. In Florida alone, there are over 1,300 pharmacies that accept GoodRx coupons and discounts. Overall, this service is a helpful resource for seniors to save money on necessary medications, which can quickly get expensive.ConclusionWhether seniors are aging at home or in a Florida assisted living community, convenience apps have proven to be invaluable tools for improving independence and quality of life. By making everyday tasks more accessible and efficient, these apps empower seniors to lead more full, connected lives, while also providing peace of mind to their loved ones. As technology continues to advance, the positive impact of convenience apps for seniors will continue to increase, creating a more inclusive and supportive digital landscape for our senior community.Need more senior guidance?Navigating the challenges that come with aging can be difficult. If you or a loved one could use no-cost guidance on finding the best senior living and care, give Florida Senior Consulting a call at (800) 969-7176.We help seniors find their perfect senior living communities, and we help with every step of the process along the way! Touring, packing, moving, unpacking, settling in we help with it ALL!Visit FloridaSeniorConsulting.com to learn more.

Healthy Eating for Seniors: Nutrition Tips and Delicious Recipes

We all know a balanced diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and healthy eating is even more important for senior citizens. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients. We require more protein to maintain muscle mass. Getting enough calcium and vitamin D becomes increasingly important to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures. Additionally, many seniors struggle to manage chronic conditions, and healthy eating can go a long way to help. Eating right can also help support your immune system, prevent illness, improve brain health, and reduce inflammation.  These nutritional tips and delicious recipes will make healthy eating as a senior citizen even easier! Nutrition Tips for SeniorsHealthy eating doesnt have to be complicated. Try these simple tips to make sure youre eating a balanced diet and fueling your body. Get enough protein. Seniors should aim for about 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight. For example, someone weighing 150 pounds should try to get 150 grams of protein per day. You can meet this need through foods like protein shakes, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, tofu, and whole grains. Eat calcium-rich foods high in Vitamin D. Many high-protein foodslike dairy products, nuts, seeds, and eggscontain these vital nutrients. Fatty fish is a great source of vitamin D. Many people also take supplements, which can fill in any nutritional gaps.Include omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. This can be done through supplements or foods like fatty fish and nuts. Omega-3s have been shown to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, which are common in aging. Drink lots of water. Seniors often experience a reduced sense of thirst, so it can be helpful to set a reminder on your watch or smartphone to remind you to drink water throughout the day.Get enough fiber. Fiber-rich foods, like fruits, veggies, and whole grains, are beneficial for digestive health. This is important for seniors, especially those struggling with chronic conditions like diabetes or irritable bowel syndrome. Now that youve got some basic nutrition tips, lets check out some delicious recipes that make healthy eating for seniors easy! Quick & Easy Healthy Recipes for Seniors Greek Yogurt Parfait: Ingredients:Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)Granola or chopped nutsHoney or maple syrup (optional) Instructions:In a glass or bowl, layer Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and granola or nuts.Drizzle with a touch of honey or maple syrup if desired.This parfait is a great option for breakfast or a healthy snack. Grilled Chicken and Veggie Skewers with Quinoa: Ingredients:Chicken breast, cut into cubesAssorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions, cherry tomatoes)Cooked rice or quinoaOlive oilLemon juiceGarlic, mincedSalt and pepper Instructions:Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers.In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.Brush the marinade over the skewers and let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes.Grill the skewers until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.Serve the skewers over cooked rice or quinoa for a balanced and satisfying meal. Bean and Veggie Wrap Ingredients:Whole wheat tortillaCooked black beans (canned or cooked from dry)Sliced avocadoSliced bell peppersChopped lettuce or spinachSliced carrotsSliced cucumbersSalsa Lay the tortilla flat and layer black beans, avocado, and veggies in the center.Drizzle with salsa.Roll up the tortilla, tucking in the sides to create a wrap. Cut in half if desired. Grilled Veggie and Hummus SandwichIngredients:2 slices whole grain bread1/2 cup hummus (homemade or store-bought)1/2 cup mixed grilled or roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, red onion, etc.)1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)1/4 cup fresh spinach or arugula1 tablespoon olive oilSalt and pepper to taste Instructions:Preheat your grill or oven.Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.Grill the vegetables or roast them in the oven until theyre tender and slightly charred. Set aside. Toast the slices of whole grain bread if desired.Spread a generous layer of hummus on one slice of bread.Layer the grilled or roasted vegetables on top of the hummus.Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese (if using) over the vegetables.Top with fresh spinach or arugula for added greens. Serve the grilled veggie and hummus sandwich with a side salad or some baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal. This sandwich is not only packed with protein from the hummus and feta cheese, but its also loaded with fiber and essential nutrients from the vegetables and whole grain bread. Its a great option for a filling and nutritious lunch or dinner. Feel free to customize the vegetables and add your favorite seasonings to make it even more flavorful. Broccoli Pesto Pasta Ingredients:Whole wheat or high protein pastaBroccoli floretsWalnuts or pine nutsFresh basil leavesGarlic, mincedParmesan cheese, grated (optional)Lemon juiceOlive oilSalt and pepper to taste Instructions:Cook the pasta according to package instructions.Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender.In a food processor, blend walnuts, basil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice until smooth.Drizzle in olive oil while blending to make a pesto sauce.Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce and cooked broccoli.Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve. This pasta recipe offers a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast: Ingredients:Chicken breastBaby spinachCrumbled feta cheeseGarlic powderSalt and pepperOlive oil Instructions:Preheat the oven.Cut a pocket in the side of the chicken breast.Stuff the pocket with baby spinach and crumbled feta cheese.Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the chicken on both sides.Transfer the chicken to the oven and bake until cooked through.Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad. The chicken breast, spinach, and feta offer a balance of fiber, protein, calcium, and vitamin D. This makes it a delicious, filling, and nutritious meal! With these nutrition tips and delicious recipes, youll find healthy eating for seniors easier than ever. Having trouble managing your health? Consider senior living! Tour a senior living community near you today. Or call The Gallery at Broomfield at 303-656-3738 to learn more.