Age and gender affect nutritional demands differently. For seniors, the foods and beverages that make up a healthy meal may need to change a little from when you were younger. You’ll generally require more of some meals and less of others. Your eating habits as you age will also depend on your gender because older men and older women have distinct nutritional requirements.
If you already have a healthy diet, healthy eating doesn’t actually vary that much with age. You just need to be conscious of your own unique nutritional demands and modify your dietary choices to ensure that your body receives what it requires for optimal health as you age. Below are tips to help you meet your nutritional needs.
Try a Variety of Healthy Foods
As you age, it is important to eat a variety of healthy foods to make sure you get enough of the different nutrients you need. Choose from a variety of fruits, fiber foods, vegetables and protein foods that you enjoy. This may include:
- Oats
- Whole wheat pasta
- Fish
- Eggs
- Dark green vegetables such as kale
- Carrots and sweet potatoes
- Lean red meat
- Milk and yogurt
- Tofu
- … and many others.
Drink Enough Water
Even if you don’t feel thirsty, you should drink often as your sense of thirst may deteriorate with age. Drink water throughout the day and at every meal and snack to stay hydrated. Use water to quench your thirst rather than caffeinated beverages.
The following additional meals and beverages can aid with hydration:
- Low-fat milk
- Vegetables and fruits like apples and cucumbers
- Unsweetened plant-based beverages
- Low sodium soups
Eat With Others
Eating with others may be beneficial for your health as it could motivate you to consume more of nutrient-rich meals.
Many retirement communities provide a restaurant-style dining area for residents to eat their meals with their friends. If you already live in a retirement community that allows that, this will be easy to do.
Beware of Empty Calories
These include meals like chips, candy, baked goods, soda, and alcohol that are high in calories but low in nutrition.
Choose Low Fat and Low Carb Foods
You should try as much as possible to avoid foods that contain saturated and trans fats. Animal fats are often where saturated fats originate from. Processed foods like stick margarine also include trans fats. Some fast food establishments may use them in their pre-made fried dishes and baked items.
Consider a Move Into Conservatory At Plano
Our retirement community provides a Sensations Dining program which features daily three chef-prepared meals plus snacks for residents. The planning and preparation of food are done by a culinary team that prioritizes the dietary needs of our residents. In addition to that, you get to eat with your friends in the community, making every meal time something to look forward to.
Our other senior living programs include:
- Dimensions Wellness
- Expressions Concierge
- Ambassadors Club
- 100-Percent Satisfaction Guarantee
- Celebrations Activities & Events
- Impressions Housekeeping
- Connections Transportation, Maintenance & Security
Contact us at 972-559-0659 to learn more.
