The Importance of Senior Nutrition

Sep 12, 2023 | Health & Wellness

Good nutrition is the foundation for good health.

A combination of proper nutrients and exercise can help prevent a variety of chronic diseases. Throughout the aging process, bone and muscle mass is lost as metabolisms change. Due to the unique nutritional needs of seniors, taking the proper measures to provide wholesome, healthy foods is key to avoiding malnutrition and disease.

NUTRITION RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SENIORS 

Though seniors often have lower calorie requirements, they may need more nutrients than younger people. As we age, our ability to absorb nutrients from our food becomes less efficient. Creating a plan with a health professional, such as a dietician, can help seniors age with optimal nourishment.

    1. Nutrient-Dense Meals and Snacks

Understanding the key nutrients for seniors, such as lean protein, fiber, calcium, potassium, and vitamin D can result in healthier plates. Whole grains and dairy products both provide a boost to a senior’s daily nutrition goal. Hearty soups are popular, as they are easily chewed and can provide vegetables, protein, and grains in a single bowl.

    1. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration

Some seniors begin to lose the sensation of thirst, which may lead to dehydration and difficulty digesting meals. Sugary drinks, such as soda and fruit juice with added sweeteners should be enjoyed in moderation. Low-fat milk helps to hydrate and also provides key nutrients, such as protein, potassium, and calcium.

    1. Calorie Intake 

Seniors who find themselves struggling to consume enough calories each day should consider switching to full-fat milk and adding healthy fats and oils to boost calories. Nut butter and avocados are ideal and spread easily on toast or as a standalone snack.

    1. Dietary Supplements When Needed

Depending on the senior’s health, supplements may be recommended. One example is many seniors are prone to calcium and Vitamin D deficiency, which affects bone health. Supplements may help with deficiencies and can in the form of a daily meal-replacement shake or chewable vitamins and minerals.

    1. Focus On Variety

Health experts encourage people of all ages to “eat the rainbow.” By filling a plate with diverse, colorful options, appetites increase and mealtime becomes more stimulating. Encourage variety to avoid the boredom associated with repetition.

WHAT WE CAN DO TO HELP

At Celebration Villa of Reedsville, we believe in providing practical tips to help ensure that our senior residents obtain proper nutrition. If unintentional weight loss has occurred, it’s important to visit a doctor to ensure there are no underlying medical causes. A doctor can provide a referral to a dietician, who is best equipped to build a personalized plan to promote a nourishing eating regimen tailored specifically for our residents.

We understand that seniors who have recently experienced the loss of a spouse or a close friend are prone to loneliness, which can escalate to a depressive state. This makes it difficult for our seniors to cook or feed themselves, even if they’re otherwise independent. That’s why, at Celebration Villa of Reedsville, we encourage all families to check on their loved ones. You can support them by providing healthy meals or accompanying them out to eat to encourage conversation and enjoy a hearty plate together.

Within our senior living community, we provide nutritious meals each day, and there is a strong sense of social belonging built around eating together. We take great care to ensure that each resident is meeting their personal nutrition goals. Our dedicated team works closely with licensed nutritionists to create a menu of wholesome, healthy, and delicious meals that cater to the unique needs of our seniors.

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Testimonials

Celebration Villa of Reedsville is a caring community. Staff are very caring and take care ...
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Jennifer Brown
Celebration Villa of Reedsville is a caring community. Staff are very caring and take care of the residents tremendously. Living there is like living at home.
Jennifer Brown
Jennifer Brown
My father has lived here since October 2021. Even though this was a big step in ...
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S Rhodes
My father has lived here since October 2021. Even though this was a big step in his life, the staff made the transition quite easy. Since being there his only complaint has been food and that was only related to how hot or cold it was. He likes the staff and they truly seem to care. His room is nice. It is so quiet and the AC and heater work quite well. About half the time I don't live close by and I feel very confident he is in good hands. It's only been 4 months but they have been a huge help in his care.
S Rhodes
S Rhodes
Celebration Villa of Reedsville is an awesome looking, well maintained community for your family member ...
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Timothy Mosel
Celebration Villa of Reedsville is an awesome looking, well maintained community for your family member in need. Staff are great with the residents!
Timothy Mosel
Timothy Mosel
The Villa is perfect for my father. From the time I looked into Dad...
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L Johnson
The Villa is perfect for my father. From the time I looked into Dad possibly residing there to this date, the Staff and Administration, specifically Megan, Amber and Director Rena have gone above and beyond in making him feel at home and understanding and attending to his specific needs. The creative daily activities along with the excellent food provided plus giving the residents their privacy when needed makes the Villa a comfortable place to live. A special thank you to ALL the Staff for all you do for all the residence 🤗
L Johnson
L Johnson
Very warm and welcoming community! Dinning staff are very accommodating to resident preferences. Nursing staff ...
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Rena Dysinger
Very warm and welcoming community! Dinning staff are very accommodating to resident preferences. Nursing staff are super attentive to individual care preferences. Housekeeping staff are thorough and adapt to resident requests. Reception staff are polite and helpful. Be sure to check the Activities Calendar daily for socials, events, movies, & more.
Rena Dysinger
Rena Dysinger
Celebration Villa of Reedsville is very much well cared for as a facility and resident ...
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Heather Rowles
Celebration Villa of Reedsville is very much well cared for as a facility and resident wise. The residential aides take the most pride in caring for your loved ones. They make everyone feel at home and they are always willing to help in anyway possible. The building is nicely decorated and smells amazing. The management team is wonderful and makes sure to address any complaints in a timely fashion. I would recommend this facility to anyone in need of a personal care home for their loved ones! Wonderful job guys!
Heather Rowles
Heather Rowles

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