The Importance of Senior Nutrition

Dec 1, 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 St. Gabriel of Corpus Christi, 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 St. Gabriel of Corpus Christi, 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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Wonderful Wellness Director Angie!
John
Wonderful Wellness Director Angie!
John
John
Knowing that this community is the only one in town that specializes and focuses on ...
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Sharon
Knowing that this community is the only one in town that specializes and focuses on residents who have Dementia ONLY is comforting. When you walk in, it has the best sense of "calmness" and feels like home. The entire care team are all certified to work with Dementia residents and pay special attention to what they need given their Dementia. Personalized care is what you get at Thrive.
Sharon
Sharon
St. Gabriel’s is awesome not only the environment but the staff. They are...
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Araceli
St. Gabriel’s is awesome not only the environment but the staff. They are caring and supportive to the patients and family. I give them 10 + stars
Araceli
Araceli
Hey family and friends. Just wrapping my opinion about St. Gabriel memory care community center, ...
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Mary
Hey family and friends. Just wrapping my opinion about St. Gabriel memory care community center, I my self have a friend that lives there and I personally have observed that the staff that works there are very caring and very nice people. They have activities like bowling, painting. movies and have a preacher that comes every week to read and teach on the Bible. The facility is very well kept and clean. I really enjoy being there.
Mary
Mary
I had an amazing tour at St. Gabriel. Aurora was outstanding. She made me feel ...
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Nneka
I had an amazing tour at St. Gabriel. Aurora was outstanding. She made me feel welcome and listened to my concerns. Aurora's deep knowledge of the facility's programs and amenities impressed me. She also had community resources for me to reach out to for caregivers of loved ones with dementia. The personalized care approach and attention to detail were remarkable. St. Gabriel is lucky to have Aurora on their team. I Highly recommend this facility. Thank you, Aurora and St. Gabriel staff for a great experience during a difficult time. We are still looking at options placement for my grandma, but St. Gabriel is at the top of our list.
Nneka
Nneka
During a very difficult time, the St. Gabriel’s staff worked tirelessly with our...
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Stephania
During a very difficult time, the St. Gabriel’s staff worked tirelessly with our family to ensure our dad had the best care. Just by walking through the door you could feel the warmth and kindness from all who approached him. This made an incredibly challenging decision easier to entrust our father to people we knew would love & care for him. Thank you!
Stephania
Stephania

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