Throughout our lives, eating a healthy diet is beneficial in a variety of ways. Nutritious foods help us maintain the proper weight, increase our energy levels and boost our immune systems. The National Institute of Health reports that proper nutrition can also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, bone loss and even some cancers.
However, as we age, it’s common for our metabolisms to slow down and for us to become slightly less active than we were in our younger years. Seniors who lead sedentary lifestyles tend to have decreased appetites and require fewer calories, which can make it difficult to consume the right amount of nutrients needed on a daily basis.
For seniors, eating a healthy diet has even more benefits than the ones mentioned above. The NIH reports that proper nutrition for seniors is also key for lowering your risk for high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and you can even decrease your risk for cognitive decline.
It’s a common myth that all seniors will inevitably lose their appetites as they age. If you tend to have no appetite at all, this is usually a sign of a more serious health problem. Eating a well-balanced diet is key for many reasons, including:
Some seniors may find it difficult to ensure they’re getting proper nutrition, whether because they live alone and cooking is a hassle, or because they have limited mobility and chronic conditions. Turning to pre-packaged or frozen foods is convenient, but these types of meals are usually higher in fat, sodium and empty calories.
Even if your appetite is decreasing, there are steps you can take to improve your eating habits. Follow these five senior nutrition tips to ensure you’re getting the proper nutrition you need to thrive:
Symphony Senior Living understands that food is not only beneficial to overall health and wellness, but is also a joyful part of residents’ daily lives. Our chef and dietary staff prepare fresh creations daily, served in a beautiful dining room by a compassionate team. Contact us today to learn more, or call and schedule your personal visit with a complimentary meal.