A healthy diet is essential at any age, but it’s extremely important for seniors. With age, the body becomes less efficient, and it’s difficult to get the nutrition it needs. Nutrition is a key component of successful and healthy aging. Here are five indispensable foods that can help seniors obtain the vitamins and minerals needed for longevity and overall wellness.
1. Eggs
These little powerhouses pack some serious B12, which is one of the body’s most important vitamins. B12 keeps red blood cells healthy, but absorbing the vitamin gets more difficult with age. By incorporating eggs into their daily diets, seniors can boost their B12 levels while also obtaining a handful of other essential nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin D, and protein. In fact, nutritionists often call eggs the “perfect food.”
A professional caregiver with expertise in nutrition can be a wonderful source of information and encouragement for your loved one. Home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
2. Milk
Aging bodies need calcium, and a glass of low-fat milk is a healthy way to boost calcium as a senior starts the day or ends the evening. Nutritionists suggest seniors strive to get around three servings of milk a day to minimize their risk of bone loss and osteoporosis.
3. Salmon
Salmon is a terrific source of vitamin D, and recent studies have shown that vitamin D may also protect against certain chronic diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer’s. By eating salmon, seniors can also get valuable omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, and rheumatoid arthritis.
If your loved one needs help planning and preparing nutritious meals, a professional caregiver can be a fantastic source of support. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Las Vegas, NV, Assisting Hands Home Care are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
4. Oatmeal
A delicious source of fiber, oatmeal is low in fat and one of the highest sources of protein of any grain. It can promote digestion, and it’s a filling meal that can keep seniors fuller for longer. Oatmeal is also an inexpensive choice for those on budgets who need to maximize the nutritional value of each meal.
5. Bananas
The list of health benefits associated with bananas is virtually endless. Bananas encourage the production of white blood cells because of their high levels of vitamin B6. They’re also a terrific source of potassium, which can reduce muscle cramps as well as lower blood pressure, which can prevent heart attacks and strokes.
If your loved one finds it challenging to follow a healthy diet, consider enlisting the help of a professional home caregiver. In Las Vegas, homecare services providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care Las Vegas are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To learn about our premier in-home care options, give us a call at 702-919-0231 today.
