Senior Nutrition: Top 5 Healthy Eating Tips for Older Adults

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining health and keeping critical bodily functions working properly. Hydration can be a challenge for some seniors because seniors may have a diminished ability to sense thirst, notice changes in body temperature, and may be taking medications that have a dehydrating effect. Keeping a few tips in mind will ensure that seniors stay hydrated and continue to enjoy the activities that bring them joy.Older adults looking to stay hydrated throughout the day should try these tips to get started. Being dehydrated can cause confusion, headaches, elevated heart rate, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Seniors who think they may be dehydrated should discuss their symptoms with their doctor before changing their fluid intake. Seniors should discuss hydration with their doctor as only can a healthcare professional recommend how much water someone needs, and they can also provide guidance and tips on managing water intake. Create a schedule drinking a lot of water in one sitting can be difficult. However, creating a schedule that accounts for daily activity, physician-recommended intake levels, and the preferences of the senior can help keep hydration on track.Eat water-rich foods cucumbers, watermelon, apples, and other water-rich produce can help seniors get more fluids at mealtimes. Broth is also a good option.Make water more interesting For those that dont enjoy drinking water, adding small amounts of juice or flavoring to water can make it less boring. Popsicles are also a great optionespecially on warm days!Reduce water loss excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration keeping inside temperatures at a reasonable level, and being mindful of fluid loss during outside activities, can help seniors stay hydrated.Dont wait for thirst often, when seniors feel thirsty; they may already be dehydrated.Additional TipsCarry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day.Set reminders on your phone or use a kitchen timer to prompt yourself to drink fluids.There are also water bottles available that track your fluid intake.If you find it difficult to drink plain water, consider flavored sparkling water or unsweetened tea.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers can provide support for seniors that are concerned about the issue of hydration. Our caregivers can provide transportation to healthcare appointments, assist with meal preparation and planning, and provide support for physician-prescribed hydration regimens. Our goal is to support physical and emotional care goals and to elevate the spirits of our clients and their families every day.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Get the Facts: Drinking Water and Intake. Web. 2016.FamilyDoctor.org. Hydration: Why Its So Important. Web. 2017.Mayo Clinic. Dehydration. Web. 2018.WebMD. What is Dehydration? What Causes It? Web. 2019

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 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 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.Comfort Keepers Can HelpIf 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.ReferencesMayo 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.

As our loved ones age, ensuring their safety and well-being becomes a top priority. For many seniors, the desire to age gracefully in the comfort of their own homes is strong. However, as homes age with them, they may pose various risks and challenges. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore foolproof strategies to make your home safe for seniors, enhancing their independence and well-being.Understanding the Importance of Senior SafetyAging comes with its own set of challenges, including decreased mobility, vision impairments, and other health concerns. It's essential to create a safe living environment that addresses these challenges and minimizes the risk of accidents and injuries. By prioritizing senior safety, we can help our loved ones maintain their independence and quality of life.Introducing Aging in PlaceAging in Place is a concept that emphasizes the ability for seniors to remain in their own homes as they age, rather than moving to assisted living facilities or nursing homes. This approach allows seniors to maintain their sense of independence and familiarity with their surroundings, promoting overall well-being and happiness.Identifying Home HazardsBefore implementing safety measures, it's crucial to identify potential hazards in the home. Common hazards for seniors include slippery floors, poor lighting, cluttered walkways, and inaccessible bathrooms. By conducting a thorough home safety assessment, we can pinpoint areas that require attention and make necessary modifications to improve safety.Essential Home ModificationsOnce hazards have been identified, it's time to implement modifications to enhance senior safety. These modifications may include:Installing grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs to prevent fallsAdding non-slip flooring and mats in high-traffic areasImproving lighting throughout the home to reduce the risk of trips and fallsInstalling handrails and ramps for easier mobilityLowering countertops and cabinets to make them more accessibleUpgrading bathroom fixtures to include features such as walk-in showers and raised toiletsBy making these modifications, we can create a safer and more accessible living environment for seniors, allowing them to navigate their homes with confidence and ease.Leveraging Technology for SafetyIn addition to physical modifications, technology can also play a crucial role in enhancing senior safety. Smart home devices such as motion sensors, doorbell cameras, and medical alert systems can provide added security and peace of mind for both seniors and their caregivers. These technologies can help monitor for potential emergencies, provide assistance in case of falls or accidents, and allow for remote monitoring of the home.TruBlues Senior Safe SolutionsAt TruBlue, we understand the importance of senior safety and independence. That's why we offer a range of services specifically designed to make homes safer and more accessible for seniors. From home assessments and modifications to ongoing maintenance and support, we're here to help seniors age in place with confidence and peace of mind.Taking Action for Senior SafetyEnsuring senior safety in the home requires careful planning, assessment, and implementation of foolproof strategies. By identifying hazards, making necessary modifications, leveraging technology, and partnering with trusted experts like TruBlue, we can create a safe and supportive environment that allows seniors to age in place with dignity and independence. With the right approach and support, we can make our homes safer and more comfortable for our aging loved ones, ensuring their well-being and happiness for years to come.