As people age, maintaining a healthy diet can become more challenging due to various factors such as health issues and reduced activity levels. These challenges often lead to a decreased appetite and difficulties in meal planning and preparation. However, good nutrition is critical for older adults to maintain strength and reduce the risk of disease.
One common barrier to healthy eating for older adults is decreased appetite. As we age, our bodies may not require as much food, which can lead to a loss of interest in eating. Additionally, certain medications can affect appetite and make it difficult to consume enough nutrients. To overcome this barrier, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian who can recommend ways to increase appetite and ensure that you are consuming enough nutrients.
Another challenge for older adults is difficulty planning and preparing meals. This issue can be addressed by seeking out local resources and support that provide meal delivery services or cooking classes tailored specifically for seniors. Parkview Health offers such resources through its local resources database, connecting older adults with assistance for food, housing, health services, transportation, and legal support. Additionally, the Parkview Residency Center provides the opportunity for individuals to have a resident physician as part of their care team. This allows for an individualized care plan with oversight by highly qualified physicians and access to the latest health information and treatments.
In conclusion, good nutrition is vital for maintaining strength and reducing the risk of disease in older adults. While there may be barriers such as decreased appetite or difficulty planning meals, these challenges can be overcome through local resources and support provided by organizations like Parkview Health.
For more information on how Parkview Health can assist older adults with healthy eating options visit parkview.com/ResidencyFAQs.
It’s important to note that this information should not replace the advice of a doctor and is copyright material adapted with permission from Healthwise Incorporated.