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Good nutrition is important, no matter your age. Eating right is how your body gets vital nutrients: substances that our bodies need so they can function and grow, like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and even water. But as you age, your body and life change, and so does what you need to stay healthy—which is why senior nutrition is such an important topic.
Many people don’t realize how big of a role nutrition plays in their long-term health and happiness. They may have a general sense of what “healthy” means, but knowing and doing are, of course, two different things. Let’s take a closer look at what special considerations adults over 50 need to know about nutrition that can help them lead longer, healthier lives.
We all know that finding the right balance of calories is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight throughout adulthood. But older adults generally need fewer calories than they used to due to changes in metabolism, physical activity levels, and age-related loss of muscle mass.
However, while you may need fewer calories, you still need the same amount of nutrients, if not more. Nutrients are crucial for energy and weight control. They can also help prevent some diseases, like osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
Over 50, it’s more important than ever to cut empty calories like sodas, chips, candies, and alcohol. Instead, focus on calorie-light but nutrient-packed foods, such as:
Despite needing fewer calories, older adults actually have higher protein requirements than younger adults—especially if they’re dealing with an illness.
Our bodies progressively lose muscle mass, strength, and function over time, beginning as early as our 30s. When people get older, their bodies can’t process protein as efficiently, especially in the face of stressful situations like chronic disease, acute illness, or hospitalization. That means seniors need to get more protein from their diet to support and preserve muscle mass.
Muscle loss and general weakness resulting from inadequate nutrition can lead to falls. Every year, one out of four older adults experience a fall, which can have serious physical and mental health consequences. Fall prevention is a multifaceted but highly important part of overall health and wellness in older age.
Additionally, studies have suggested that older adults who consume more protein are more capable of performing activities of daily living for longer. When muscle mass is preserved, everyday functions like getting out of bed, bathing and dressing, and moving around the house may be, too!
Carbs have a bad reputation these days, with the rise in low-carb diets sweeping the nation. But for a balanced diet, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends carbohydrates make up 45%-65% of every adult’s diet. Instead of cutting carbs entirely, nutrition is about focusing on the right carbohydrates to support energy and digestion.
There are good and bad carbohydrates, and the bad ones only cause more problems as we age. Bad carbs are simple: they are mostly starches or sugars, stripped of nutrients, and make blood sugar levels spike quickly. Good carbohydrates are complex: they are mostly fibers and other beneficial nutrients, which are slower to digest, helping regulate blood sugar and feelings of fullness.
Good Carbs (Complex) | Bad Carbs (Simple) |
Whole-grain bread, pasta, rice, oatmeal, baked goods containing whole-what flour | White bread, white paste, white rice, baked goods containing white flour |
Nuts and seeds | Processed foods like potato chips, crackers, breakfast cereal |
Legumes (lentils, beans, etc.) | Soda |
Fruits and vegetables with edible skins | Sugary desserts and candies |
Sodium (aka salt) is another nutrient that has a bad reputation, though it comes by it honestly. Sodium is necessary for proper body function: it helps maintain fluid balance, conducts nerve impulses, and helps with muscle contraction. However, most American adults get too much sodium, which contributes to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
There are also special considerations for seniors. As we age, our kidney function naturally decreases, which can make it harder to remove excess sodium from the body. That means taking special care to limit sodium intake to less than 2,300mg per day—about the equivalent of one teaspoon of table salt.
We know that the sun helps our bodies produce Vitamin D. But not only is sun exposure risky for our health—our skin also changes as we get older, becoming less adept at producing Vitamin D. That means we need to rely more on food sources and supplements to get it.
Vitamin D helps our bodies absorb calcium, which is why taking both together is so crucial for building and maintaining healthy bones. Research shows that it can prevent and even improve osteoporosis, a condition that leads to weak, brittle bones. Older adults—even those who already struggle with weakness or frailty—can develop stronger muscles and reduce their fall risk with adequate Vitamin D levels.
Your doctor can help you determine the right amount of Vitamin D for your diet and recommend a supplement. You can also focus on eating foods like:
Prioritizing nutrition can be challenging for seniors, and navigating each consideration can feel a little daunting. If you or your loved one faces challenges with accessing and preparing healthy foods or has other barriers like difficulty chewing or swallowing, help is out there!
At ComForCare, we’ve prepared a free meal planning guide filled with simple yet nutritious recipes developed with seniors’ unique needs in mind. This guide is packed with helpful tips, recipes, and advice for caring for a loved one with dietary barriers.
Plus, you can join us on Facebook every Thursday at 1 pm EST for the latest episode of Care Kitchen, our live cooking program led by chef Steve Toll! We’re always exploring new ways to support and inspire creativity in cooking, whether for yourself or for loved ones in your care.
If you or your loved one need more help planning and preparing nutritious meals, ComForCare’s caregivers can help. Our in-home care services can be personalized to support your needs, including meal prep, personal care, transportation, and more. Learn more about our care services or reach out to your local team today to find your perfect caregiver!
Alzheon has reported encouraging results from its Phase 2 trial of ALZ-801, an oral treatment for early Alzheimers disease. The study showed cognitive benefits, a 28% reduction in hippocampal atrophy, and a strong safety profile, particularly for individuals with two copies of the APOE4 gene. With the Phase 3 trial now fully enrolled, topline results are expected in the near future. If successful, ALZ-801 could become the first oral anti-amyloid therapy for high-risk patients. Aqualane is proud to be part of this groundbreaking research and extend our deepest gratitude to all participants whose contributions are shaping the future of Alzheimers treatment.
At The Dubin Center, we often see the strength that blooms when families come together to care for a loved one. One such inspiring duo is Sally and her daughter, Jenna multigenerational caregiving team who have supported each other and grown together through the challenges of dementia caregiving.Sally has been a caregiver for at least four years, navigating the evolving needs of her husband with quiet strength and a fierce commitment to showing up each day. Two years ago, her daughter Jenn moved to Florida to be closerand to help. Since then, the two have become a team, blending perspectives, experiences, and love as they walk the caregiving journey together.When asked what they would say to someone who is unsure about joining a support group or getting involved with The Dubin Center, both women spoke with heartfelt conviction."Definitely come, Sally said. Anyone dealing with this sort of stuff needs support. It saved me.Jenn echoed her mothers words, adding, You are not alone. The support groups can help lift you out of the misery. You can give advice and get advice. Its a safe spaceand comforting knowing others understand.Caregiving across generations isnt always easy, but it opens the door for powerful lessons.When asked what younger and older generations can learn from each other, Sally emphasized patiencenoting that age often brings the ability to let go of the small things and focus on what really matters. Jenn reflected on the importance of respect, independence, and dignity, which shes seen modeled by her mom.So, what advice do they have for other families navigating caregiving across generations?Find support, and dont do it alone, Sally advised. Let your family know whats going on and ask for help when you need it.Jenn added, Being open, honest, patient, and kind are the most important. Dont judge, and find a middle ground to work together.Thank you, Sally and Jenn, for your inspiring words! Whether you have family to lean on or not, their words are a reminder that caregiving doesnt have to be a solitary journey. If you or someone you know is caregiving across generations or by themself, reach out. Whether it's joining a support group or simply asking questions, The Dubin Center is here for you!
As we mark Womens History Month 2025, TravelPulse is once again taking a moment to acknowledge the substantial contributions and innovations of women in the travel industry.Its hardly an overstatement to say that women play a critical role in travel and tourism, both locally and globally.The latest available data from the World Travel & Tourism Council shows that women make up nearly 40 percent of the industry. That translates to about 48 million women working in what is now the worlds ninth largest industry.Among these women are scores of trailblazers, visionaries and fearless go-getters who have set their sights on making a difference for others or for the world (or both) and are doing so in their own unique way. They are entrepreneurs, they are corporate titans, they are passionate environmentalists and they are leaders of some of the travel industrys largest brands, businesses and trade groups.This is TravelPulses fifth annual list of influential women in travel, and each year, it is a privilege reviewing the bold things that women in travel are accomplishing. The 2025 class of influential leaders makes clear that women continue to be a force to be reckoned with, even during this fraught time in our history.Women continue to bring unique approaches to addressing and resolving many of the daunting challenges facing the industry and the world at large, including finding ways to make travel more sustainable, inclusive, accessible, thoughtful, and beneficial for stakeholders at all levels.At TravelPulses request, each of the 20 women being honored this year (who were all nominated by industry peers) shared a few career accomplishments theyre most proud of, as well as thoughts on what motivates them. Their answers are a compelling and inspirational read.Heres a closer look at each of the 2025 winners and the forces that drive them.Kerri Johnson, Founder, GOMO TravelAs the founder of GOMO Travel, Kerri Johnson is transforming the way people with mobility challenges, medical conditions, or other travel limitations experience the world. A medical travel assistance agency, GOMOs medical travel companions ensure that travelers get where they need to go with safety.The assistance of GOMO companions is available whether someone has mobility issues, suffers from anxiety, or requires medical assistance.Johnsons efforts through GOMO prioritize inclusivity, ensuring every traveler no matter their circumstances receives personalized support, from booking accessible accommodations to navigating unexpected disruptions.Q: What motivates you to do what you do each day?I have a nursing background and have always been sensitive to peoples feelings and needs, says Johnson. As I have grown and matured, I have become a staunch advocate for those less fortunate. I start my day with my alarm of Andy Williams song The Impossible Dream.This is a daily reminder to accomplish my goal of alleviating fear, isolationism, andexclusion experienced by many would-be travelers, says Johnson. At GOMO Travel, we strive to make their dreams possible.Q: What are your hopes and goals related to your specific area of work and the impact youd like to have on the travel industry?We feel everyone should be free to travel on their own terms, whatever that individuallymeans for them, says Johnson. Our hope is to normalize assisted travel across the globe so they will know that resources like ours exist. Uber did not happen overnight, and we utilize every day to build our network to achieve our goal of one day becoming the Uber of assisted travel.
ComForCare is a premier provider of in-home care with locations in U.S. and Canada. Our personalized care plans and compassionate caregivers help seniors live independently in their own home and continue to do all the things they love.We serve in any setting you call home, whether it is a private home, independent or assisted living community or skilled care facility.ComForCare Home Care- Bonita Springs provides in-home care services including Alzheimer's disease and dementia care, personal care, respite care for families, transition of care after a hospital or rehabilitation stay, chronic disease management, transportation, medication reminders, light housekeeping & laundry, shopping and errands, safety supervision, companionship and much more. Our services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from compassionate caregivers who are experienced, trained, bonded and insured.The ComForCare mission is to improve the quality of life and level of independence for every client and family receiving our services.Preserve Quality of Life with Home Care ServiceComForCare offers a variety of in-home care services to fit the needs of you and your family. It is our goal to provide companionship and help with everyday activities to ensure your elderly loved ones can live safely and securely. Whether your loved ones health concerns are due to illness, injury, or aging, our personal home care packages and flexible scheduling allow your loved one to maintain a sense of freedom, dignity, and connection to friends and family. Seniors who choose to stay at home are often happier, healthier, and recover faster from illness or injury than those living in assisted living facilities. ComForCare is independent living with a little extra help! Experience True CaregivingOur health care professionals are not only highly qualified, but they are also highly compassionate and love what they do. Caregivers who meet our high standards and strict guidelines are screened for empathy, trained in senior care, and matched with clients based on their experience, skills, and compatibility. This unique approach to elder care provides the foundation for a trusted relationship between your loved one and the caregiver, and a long-lasting partnership in care between you and ComForCare. Dedicated Personal Care Tailored to YOUFrom certified nursing assistants to respite care to companionship, our care providers give you just what you need to live your best life. As an alternative to rehab outpatient centers and nursing homes, our home healthcare agency makes daily living easier. Team members partner with family caregivers and patients to develop a custom-tailored care plan. ComForCare's personal care services include non-medical care like grocery shopping, bathing assistance, medication reminders, transportation to doctors appointments, and other companion care. We can also help prepare meals and provide support with household chores on an as-needed basis, as well as incorporate specialized memory care for those with dementia or Alzheimers disease.
ComForCare is a premier provider of in-home care with locations in U.S. and Canada. Our personalized care plans and compassionate caregivers help seniors live independently in their own home and continue to do all the things they love.We serve in any setting you call home, whether it is a private home, independent or assisted living community or skilled care facility.ComForCare Home Care- Bonita Springs provides in-home care services including Alzheimer's disease and dementia care, personal care, respite care for families, transition of care after a hospital or rehabilitation stay, chronic disease management, transportation, medication reminders, light housekeeping & laundry, shopping and errands, safety supervision, companionship and much more. Our services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from compassionate caregivers who are experienced, trained, bonded and insured.The ComForCare mission is to improve the quality of life and level of independence for every client and family receiving our services.Preserve Quality of Life with Home Care ServiceComForCare offers a variety of in-home care services to fit the needs of you and your family. It is our goal to provide companionship and help with everyday activities to ensure your elderly loved ones can live safely and securely. Whether your loved ones health concerns are due to illness, injury, or aging, our personal home care packages and flexible scheduling allow your loved one to maintain a sense of freedom, dignity, and connection to friends and family. Seniors who choose to stay at home are often happier, healthier, and recover faster from illness or injury than those living in assisted living facilities. ComForCare is independent living with a little extra help! Experience True CaregivingOur health care professionals are not only highly qualified, but they are also highly compassionate and love what they do. Caregivers who meet our high standards and strict guidelines are screened for empathy, trained in senior care, and matched with clients based on their experience, skills, and compatibility. This unique approach to elder care provides the foundation for a trusted relationship between your loved one and the caregiver, and a long-lasting partnership in care between you and ComForCare. Dedicated Personal Care Tailored to YOUFrom certified nursing assistants to respite care to companionship, our care providers give you just what you need to live your best life. As an alternative to rehab outpatient centers and nursing homes, our home healthcare agency makes daily living easier. Team members partner with family caregivers and patients to develop a custom-tailored care plan. ComForCare's personal care services include non-medical care like grocery shopping, bathing assistance, medication reminders, transportation to doctors appointments, and other companion care. We can also help prepare meals and provide support with household chores on an as-needed basis, as well as incorporate specialized memory care for those with dementia or Alzheimers disease.