The Importance of Senior Nutrition
HARMONY SENIOR SERVICES PITTSBURGH
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Harmony at Diamond Ridge
Feb 13, 2024
Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area
GOOD NUTRITION IS THE FOUNDATION FOR GOOD HEALTH.
A combination of proper nutrients and exercise can help
prevent a variety of chronic diseases. Throughout the aging process, bone and
muscle mass is lost as metabolisms change. Due to the unique nutritional needs
of seniors, taking the proper measures to provide wholesome, healthy foods is
key to avoiding malnutrition and disease.
NUTRITION RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SENIORS
Though seniors often have lower calorie requirements, they
may need more nutrients than younger people. As we age, our ability to absorb
nutrients from our food becomes less efficient. Creating a plan with a health
professional, such as a dietician, can help seniors age with optimal
nourishment.
Nutrient-Dense Meals and Snacks
Understanding the key nutrients for seniors, such as lean
protein, fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin D can result in healthier
plates. Whole grains and dairy products both provide a boost to a senior’s
daily nutrition goal. Hearty soups are popular, as they are easily chewed and
can provide vegetables, protein, and grains in a single bowl.
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration
Some seniors begin to lose the sensation of thirst, which
may lead to dehydration and difficulty digesting meals. Sugary drinks, such as
soda and fruit juice with added sweeteners, should be enjoyed in moderation.
Low-fat milk helps to hydrate and provides key nutrients, such as protein,
potassium, and calcium.
Calorie Intake
Seniors who find themselves struggling to consume enough
calories each day should consider switching to full-fat milk and adding healthy
fats and oils to boost calories. Nut butter and avocados are ideal and spread
easily on toast or as a standalone snack.
Dietary Supplements When Needed
Depending on the senior’s health, supplements may be
recommended. One example is many seniors are prone to calcium and Vitamin D
deficiency, which affects bone health. Supplements may help with deficiencies
and can in the form of a daily meal-replacement shake or chewable vitamins
and minerals.
Focus On Variety
Health experts encourage people of all ages to “eat the
rainbow.” By filling a plate with diverse, colorful options, appetites increase,
and mealtime becomes more stimulating. Encourage variety to avoid boredom
associated with repetition.
Other Articles You May Like
The Psychology of Investing
Fear and greed are hard to overcome. Why do we let these emotions control our decision-making process when it comes to our financial well-being? Do we fear that when there is a market correction it is a sign of impending global doom? As a part of our emotional make-up, we have a tendency to linearly extrapolate. When things are going bad, they will only get worse, and when things are going well, they will only get better. We know that our past experiences tell us neither scenario is true, but we continue to fall into the same trap time and time again.At some point we have to come to the realization that market movements are part of the investment process, and the only way to prosper long-term is to eliminate the emotions that will make us buy high and sell low. The way to control emotions is to have a disciplined approach. Discipline puts us in control, not our emotions.Controlling our emotions helps us in all facets of life, and is a key element in understanding the Psychology of Investing. Investment decisions are similar to decisions regarding friends and family. Dont try to resolve an issue when emotional, BE DISCIPLINED. The Psychology of Investing is nothing more than an understanding of the emotions that influence our decisions. Buying high and selling low is not the inverse of buying low and selling high, but is an actualization of our emotions. Be disciplined in your decision making. Use fact and reason to the best of your ability and endeavor to understand, and by understanding, control your emotions. The Psychology of Investing is the first chapter in a book titled The Ten Commandments of Investing, a book that offers a unique perspective on investing by Al Weber, Senior Vice President at Raymond James. It is available in electronic format, at no charge, by requesting it at Katie.Burr@RaymondJames.com. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Erin Weber, CFP. Erin is a Financial Advisor with the Weber Group of Raymond James. She may be reached at 878.208.1285 or Erin.Weber@RaymondJames.com.Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC800 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 200, Cranberry Township, PA 16066Any opinions are those of Erin Weber and not necessarily those of Raymond James. This material is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See ad on page 112.
How to Choose the Right Primary Care Doctor
The search for the right primary care doctor can feel overwhelming. Many patients express frustration with long wait times, short visits, and difficulty accessing their physician when they need them most. In todays fast-paced healthcare environment, finding a doctor who prioritizes patient care is more important than ever. One emerging alternative is Direct Primary Care (DPC), a model that shifts the focus back to the patient by eliminating insurance hassles. Instead of dealing with copays and billing, patients pay a flat monthly fee for direct access to their doctor, longer appointment times, and a more personalized healthcare experience. Availability and Access How long will it take to get your first appointment? Some traditional practices have months-long waits. In contrast, DPC providers typically offer initial visits within a week, ensuring you receive care when you need it. Office Experience Time spent in the waiting room can be a major frustration. In conventional practices, patients may wait an hour or more before seeing the doctor. DPC practices prioritize efficiency, often reducing wait times to just minutes. Time With Your Doctor Short, rushed appointments can leave patients feeling unheard. In many traditional offices, physicians are booked in 15- to 20-minute intervals, limiting discussion time. DPC physicians often schedule longer visits sometimes up to an hourallowing for in-depth conversations, thorough exams, and more thoughtful treatment plans. Communication and Follow-Up Reaching your doctor can be a challenge. Many patients endure long hold times or leave messages that go unanswered. In the DPC model, direct communication is key. Patients often have access via phone, email, or text for prompt, personalized care. Urgent Needs Medical concerns dont always arise during business hours. Traditional practices may not offer same-day visits, pushing patients toward urgent care or ERs. DPC providers aim to accommodate same- or next-day appointments, reducing unnecessary trips and ensuring continuity of care. Choosing a primary care doctor is personal. Look for a physician who is experienced, accessible, compassionate, and committed to your well-being. Asking the right questionsand exploring models like DPCcan lead to a more satisfying healthcare experience. Editors Note: This article was written by Dr. Rebecca L. Byard, Family Medicine Doctor with Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh. She can be reached at 412-892-9170 or visit their website at wwwdirectcarepgh.com. See ad on pages 2-3.
A Pharmacy That Feels More Like Family: The Blueberry Pharmacy Difference
What if picking up prescriptions felt less like an errand and more like catching up with a trusted friend? Thats exactly the experience Blueberry Pharmacy is creating for patients in the Pittsburgh area and its changing the way people think about pharmacy care. In a world where healthcare feels rushed and impersonal, Blueberry Pharmacy stands out by bringing warmth, transparency, and genuine connection back into the equation. This isnt your average corner drugstore. From the moment you call and speak to a real person, youll notice the difference. The pharmacists take time to answer questions, flag concerns, and ensure prescriptions are both affordable and safe. Their cost-plus pricing model offers fair, transparent medication costs without confusing markups found at chain pharmacies. But the real value goes beyond price. Blueberrys pharmacists act as advocates, monitoring for drug interactions, duplications, and dosing issues especially important for seniors managing multiple prescriptions.When problems arise, Blueberry steps in. Instead of passing the problem along, the pharmacy team contacts physicians directly to resolve questions and ensure patients receive the right treatment without delay. Whether youre a caregiver or managing your own medications, Blueberry Pharmacy offers an experience rooted in compassion, trust, and genuine care. They believe pharmacy care should be personal, affordable, and stress-free and have built their practice on that mission. Stop by, give them a call, or explore their services online to discover how pharmacy care can be refreshingly different when people come first. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Kyle McCormick, the owner and pharmacist at Blueberry Pharmacy. Contact them at 412-612-2279, by email at info@blueberrypharmacy.com, or online at www.blueberrypharmacy.com.See ad on this page.
Local Services By This Author
Harmony at Harts Run
Independent Living 3450 Harts Run Rd, Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, 15116Welcome to Harmony at Harts Run, where independent living for seniors is redefined with comfort, convenience, and vibrant community life. Nestled in the heart of Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, our independent senior living community offers the perfect blend of freedom and support for older adults ready to enjoy retirement on their own terms. Whether you're an active senior looking to downsize or a caregiver seeking peace of mind for a loved one, Harmony at Harts Run provides a safe, engaging, and maintenance-free lifestyle that allows residents to thrive.Independent Living That Celebrates Your FreedomAt Harmony at Harts Run, independent living means more than just a place to liveits a lifestyle upgrade. Our thoughtfully designed apartments come in a variety of spacious floor plans, offering modern comforts, full kitchens, in-unit washer/dryer, walk-in closets, and private balconies or patios. Everything is crafted with the needs of older adults in mind, from easy-to-navigate layouts to emergency response systems for added security.Gone are the days of mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or worrying about home repairs. Our team takes care of all maintenance so you can spend your time enjoying lifenot managing a to-do list. We handle the day-to-day, so you can focus on what truly matters: spending time with friends, exploring new hobbies, and living a stress-free life.A Vibrant Community Designed for Active SeniorsHarmony at Harts Run is more than just a place to liveits a community full of opportunities for connection, engagement, and enrichment. Residents enjoy a dynamic calendar of activities, events, and wellness programs that keep both body and mind active. Whether its joining a morning fitness class, attending a live music performance, participating in a book club, or enjoying a movie night in our theater room, theres something for everyone here.Our on-site amenities are second to none. From chef-prepared meals served in our elegant dining room to casual gatherings in the bistro and bar, youll find dining options that cater to both taste and convenience. Other standout features include a beauty salon and barbershop, library, game rooms, walking paths, outdoor patios, and more.Looking to stay active? Our fitness center is designed specifically for older adults and includes low-impact exercise options to help residents maintain strength, mobility, and independence.Supportive, Friendly Staff and a Welcoming EnvironmentOur compassionate and professional staff are committed to providing top-notch service and creating a welcoming, respectful environment. While independent living at Harmony at Harts Run is designed for seniors who dont require daily assistance, our community offers the benefit of aging in place. If care needs change over time, residents can access additional services such as personal care and memory careall within the same trusted community.This continuum of care offers peace of mind for caregivers and family members, knowing that their loved one can remain in a familiar, comfortable setting even if their health needs evolve. No more worrying about multiple moves or transitionsHarmony makes it easy to stay rooted while receiving the care you need, when you need it.Dining, Wellness, and ConvenienceAll in One PlaceDining at Harmony at Harts Run is an experience in itself. Our restaurant-style dining features seasonal menus with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Residents enjoy healthy, delicious meals without the hassle of cooking or cleaning. Private dining rooms are available for family gatherings or special occasions, making it easy to entertain guests and maintain connections.Wellness is a cornerstone of our community. Our health and wellness programs are curated to support physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Whether youre attending a yoga class, enjoying fresh air on the landscaped walking paths, or joining a meditation group, our goal is to help every resident live their best life.Need to run errands or get to an appointment? Our scheduled transportation services make it simple to get around town. Whether its a doctors visit, a shopping trip, or a cultural outing, we make staying active in the Glenshaw and Pittsburgh area convenient and worry-free.Close to Everything You LoveLocated just minutes from downtown Pittsburgh, Harmony at Harts Run offers the perfect location for seniors in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Surrounded by parks, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and cultural attractions, our Glenshaw location provides easy access to everything you need. Whether youre a lifelong Pittsburgher or new to the area, youll feel right at home in this charming suburban settingFor caregivers and family members, our central location makes it easy to stay connected and visit regularly. We welcome families as part of the Harmony experience, with plenty of events, socials, and celebrations that make it easy to stay involved in your loved ones life.Why Choose Harmony at Harts Run for Independent Senior Living?Spacious, maintenance-free apartmentsRobust lifestyle and wellness programsVibrant social calendar and eventsRestaurant-style dining with chef-prepared mealsOn-site amenities including salon, library, fitness center, and moreScheduled transportation and concierge servicesContinuum of care available (personal care and memory care)Beautiful, walkable grounds in a desirable Glenshaw locationFriendly, professional staff committed to resident satisfactionExperience Harmony at Harts RunSchedule a Tour TodayIf you or your loved one is ready to embrace the freedom, friendship, and fun of independent senior living, Harmony at Harts Run is ready to welcome you home. Discover what it means to live in a community that values dignity, choice, and quality of life. Come for a tour, meet our residents and team, and see firsthand why so many seniors in Glenshaw and the Pittsburgh area are proud to call Harmony at Harts Run home.Contact us today to schedule a personalized tour or to learn more about availability, floor plans, and pricing. Let Harmony at Harts Run be your next step toward carefree senior living with purpose and joy.
Harmony at Diamond Ridge
Independent Living 3301 Market Place Boulevard, Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, 15108Harmony at Diamond Ridge in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, is designed so residents can live the lives they choose in a beautiful, enriching, and supportive environment. Our associates embody the ideals we hold so dear, such as genuine warmth, deep courtesy toward each other in a community that celebrates all the possibilities. Our stylish community provides the ideal springboard to all the pleasures of our picturesque city, with spacious, maintenance-free apartment homes, restaurant style dining, and plentiful resources for staying fit and feeling good. This is the place to live your best life.Comfort. Easy elegance. Irresistible cuisine. Friends and family. These are the elements that make a person feel at home, and they are the very essence of everyday senior living at Harmony at Diamond Ridge. Our senior living community offers spacious apartments and a rich menu of services and amenities, perfect for those who are ready to expand their horizons. Our friendly community offers residents unrivaled access to everything our picturesque city has to offer, from a short drive to The Mall at Robinson or enjoy an afternoon at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Within our spacious community, spend the day your way with morning yoga and afternoon art classes followed by an evening conversation with friends over wine and cheese. Come see all that good living can be.Senior Living Apartments in Moon TownshipMaking a change is never easy, but we think you will love life in our stunning senior living community, Harmony at Diamond Ridge in Moon Township, Pennsylvania. Our Independent Living community features gorgeous one bedroom apartments sized from 670 to 890 square feet and two bedroom apartments ranging in size from 940 to 1,310 square feet. Featuring full-size kitchens with stainless-steel appliances and chic granite countertops, our sunny apartments are bathed in light and feature breathtaking mountain views. The Harmony at Diamond Ridge Dining ExperienceDining at Harmony at Diamond Ridge provides a delicious journey into the bounty of fresh ingredients available to us year-round. Our executive chef and culinary team prepares elegant meals every day, filled with flavor, enjoyable and nutritious. Enjoy a lovely dinner in our sophisticated dining room or grab a snack in the bistro after your morning exercise class. Great dining experiences play an essential role in our community, offering opportunities to get to know your neighbors, share the news of the day and celebrate special occasions. What could be more enticing than catching the aroma of freshly baked cookies or the intoxicating whiff of a holiday meal as you relax in front of the fire? Nothing says home better than a fine meal among friends and family.Our chef designs each menu to celebrate new flavors while honoring the favorite recipes our residents have come to know and love, helping delight even the most selective diners. Residents of Personal Care enjoy three chef-inspired meals per day along with an in-home kitchenette, perfect for preparing a quiet snack or a cup of morning coffee. Residents of our Independent Living enjoy one chef-inspired meal daily included in their rent, as well as their own full-size kitchen designed for daily cooking. Residents are welcome to add more meals to their plan as needed. Peruse our sample menu, and join us for brunch or a special event at Harmony at Diamond Ridge.Services & Amenities at Harmony at Diamond RidgeBeautifully designed accommodations set the bar high for distinctive senior living at Harmony at Diamond Ridge in , Pennsylvania, but its our services and amenities that really set us apart. The advantages begin with our stunning location, close to the natural beauty of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, the superior health care services of the PAM medical system, and go-to shopping destinations like ALDI, Target Grocery, and The Mall at Robinson. Our community offers amenities reminiscent of a fine resort, with an onsite fitness center, restaurant-style dining, organized activities, and a friendly team available around the clock to answer your call. Scroll down our long list of advantages and get in touch for a tour.Independent LivingAir Conditioning Move In Assistance Wi-Fi Available Custom Lighting Private Balcony Laundry Service High Ceilings Smoke-Free Private Patio Garbage DisposalTrash ServiceIn-Home Washer and Dryer Weekly Housekeeping Dishwasher Microwave Ceiling FansRefrigerator Full KitchenStainless-Steel AppliancesEnergy Efficient AppliancesKitchenette You have earned every moment of your free time, and at Harmony at Diamond Ridge, we want to make sure you can spend it exactly as you wish. Our monthly calendar of events and activities offers so much more than a way to pass the time. Residents and our Life Enrichment Director work together to create diverse, engaging, and stimulating opportunities for physical wellbeing, intellectual vigor, and pure, simple fun. Take part in seminars offering the latest and most relevant wisdom regarding senior health, join discussions of current events, enjoy cooking demonstrations, arts exploration, and so much more. You or your loved one will also enjoy a variety of off-campus activities. Dip into the local arts scene, sample the latest hot spot for lunch, or visit the Clever Park for a stroll. There is a lot to love about life in and Harmony at Diamond Ridge is the ideal home base.Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a personal tour!
Harmony at Diamond Ridge
Assisted Living 3301 Market Place Boulevard, Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, 15108Harmony at Diamond Ridge in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, is designed so residents can live the lives they choose in a beautiful, enriching, and supportive environment. Our associates embody the ideals we hold so dear, such as genuine warmth, deep courtesy toward each other in a community that celebrates all the possibilities. Our stylish community provides the ideal springboard to all the pleasures of our picturesque city, with spacious, maintenance-free apartment homes, restaurant style dining, and plentiful resources for staying fit and feeling good. This is the place to live your best life.Comfort. Easy elegance. Irresistible cuisine. Friends and family. These are the elements that make a person feel at home, and they are the very essence of everyday senior living at Harmony at Diamond Ridge. Our senior living community offers spacious apartments and a rich menu of services and amenities, perfect for those who are ready to expand their horizons. Our friendly community offers residents unrivaled access to everything our picturesque city has to offer, from a short drive to The Mall at Robinson or enjoy an afternoon at the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Within our spacious community, spend the day your way with morning yoga and afternoon art classes followed by an evening conversation with friends over wine and cheese. Come see all that good living can be.Personal Care Harmony at Diamond RidgeTheres a lot to experience at Harmony at Diamond Ridge, and our Personal Care community in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, is dedicated to helping you and your loved one find the most joy in what each day has to offer. Our caring staff works together with you and your family to create an individualized service plan based on a comprehensive assessment. We cater to the whole person, meeting such needs as assistance with medications, scheduling health care appointments, or offering a friendly escort to meals and activities.Spacious, Comfortable ApartmentsThe Personal Care apartments and companion suites at Harmony at Diamond Ridge are sized to fit your unique lifestyle, ranging from cozy, sunlit studios to airy two bedroom apartments. The living is easy and comfortable with large bathrooms, generous storage, and available kitchenettes. Best of all, we take care of the housekeeping and laundry, so you can spend your time doing the things you really love, surrounded by the people who most make you happy. One monthly fee covers rent for your living space, delicious restaurant-style dining, an exciting calendar of events, and the support needed to enjoy it all. View our gallery to take a closer look at Harmony at Diamond Ridge. In our Personal Care neighborhood at Harmony at Diamond Ridge, comfort reigns with charming studio suites sized from 330 to 350 square feet, one bedroom apartments from 450 to 730 square feet, and two bedroom apartments up to 950 square feet. The Harmony at Diamond Ridge Dining ExperienceDining at Harmony at Diamond Ridge provides a delicious journey into the bounty of fresh ingredients available to us year-round. Our executive chef and culinary team prepares elegant meals every day, filled with flavor, enjoyable and nutritious. Enjoy a lovely dinner in our sophisticated dining room or grab a snack in the bistro after your morning exercise class. Great dining experiences play an essential role in our community, offering opportunities to get to know your neighbors, share the news of the day and celebrate special occasions. What could be more enticing than catching the aroma of freshly baked cookies or the intoxicating whiff of a holiday meal as you relax in front of the fire? Nothing says home better than a fine meal among friends and family.Our chef designs each menu to celebrate new flavors while honoring the favorite recipes our residents have come to know and love, helping delight even the most selective diners. Residents of Personal Care enjoy three chef-inspired meals per day along with an in-home kitchenette, perfect for preparing a quiet snack or a cup of morning coffee. Residents of our Independent Living enjoy one chef-inspired meal daily included in their rent, as well as their own full-size kitchen designed for daily cooking. Residents are welcome to add more meals to their plan as needed. Peruse our sample menu, and join us for brunch or a special event at Harmony at Diamond Ridge.Services & Amenities at Harmony at Diamond RidgeBeautifully designed accommodations set the bar high for distinctive senior living at Harmony at Diamond Ridge but its our services and amenities that really set us apart. The advantages begin with our stunning location, close to the natural beauty of the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, the superior health care services of the PAM medical system, and go-to shopping destinations like ALDI, Target Grocery, and The Mall at Robinson. Our community offers amenities reminiscent of a fine resort, with an onsite fitness center, restaurant-style dining, organized activities, and a friendly team available around the clock to answer your call. Scroll down our long list of advantages and get in touch for a tour.Personal CareBeautiful, Spacious ApartmentsMultiple Floor Plan OptionsAssistance with Activities of Daily LivingDelicious & Nutritious Meals Prepared by an Executive ChefRestaurant-Style DiningHousekeeping & Laundry ServicesTransportation to Shopping & Medical Appointments You have earned every moment of your free time, and at Harmony at Diamond Ridge, we want to make sure you can spend it exactly as you wish. Our monthly calendar of events and activities offers so much more than a way to pass the time. Residents and our Life Enrichment Director work together to create diverse, engaging, and stimulating opportunities for physical wellbeing, intellectual vigor, and pure, simple fun. Take part in seminars offering the latest and most relevant wisdom regarding senior health, join discussions of current events, enjoy cooking demonstrations, arts exploration, and so much more. You or your loved one will also enjoy a variety of off-campus activities. Dip into the local arts scene, sample the latest hot spot for lunch, or visit the Clever Park for a stroll. There is a lot to love about life and Harmony at Diamond Ridge is the ideal home base.Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a personal tour!