Over the years, the correlation between poor diet and chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease has become more apparent. Unfortunately, despite this knowledge, many seniors still struggle to eat healthily and remain well-nourished.

While there are many reasons why this happens, there are five main reasons.

Loss of sense of taste and smell due to aging
Medications can lower appetite by inducing nausea, taste or depression
Limited access to grocery stores and food markets
Lack of appetite due to loneliness and depression
Limited budget to acquire food

We can’t do much to prevent the loss of senses due to aging, but here are seven ways our caregivers can provide senior help at home.

We can still, however, do plenty of things to help our seniors regain their ability to eat healthy well-balanced meals. Our professional caregivers are able to plan and prepare meals to provide senior help at home. How do they help?

Learn client’s likes, dislikes, mealtimes and routines
Account for special diets and help adapt meals to accommodate (example: medications that cause nausea or diabetes)
Grocery shop with or for client
Cook meals daily or cook larger meals to last longer depending on frequency of visits
Include clients who enjoy baking/cooking in the processes (mixing, washing, adding seasonings, etc.)
Provide assistance with meal set-up and feeding if client needs
Clean up meal, dishes, kitchen and take out the trash

Many of these services provide senior help at home to optimize their way of living. While these services are geared towards meal preparation and planning, our seniors are getting companionship as well that can help combat depression or feelings of loneliness.

If you’re looking for trusted home care for your aging loved one, we are your resource! Learn more here about our meal preparation and planning services.

Sources:

Nutrition for Older Adults: Factors Which Affect Food Intake

Impact of aging on eating behaviors, food choices, nutrition, and health status