Healthy eating is an important issue throughout our lives, but good nutrition in our “golden years” is especially valuable. Good nutrition can help lessen the effects of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, gastrointestinal ailments and chronic malnutrition. Studies have shown that healthy eating in later years helps in reducing the risk of these diseases as well as helping to manage the signs and symptoms. This contributes to a higher quality of life with greater independence. Poor nutrition can have the opposite effect and prolong recovery from an illness or injury and lead to a poor quality of life.
Seniors eventually come face to face with situations that interfere with their ability to maintain proper nutrition. Many seniors may require special diets, such as low fat, low sodium, or low cholesterol diets due to heart disease or high blood pressure. Diabetes or kidney problems are other reasons for special diets. These diets may become overwhelming for seniors to follow and they lead to poor choices and serious consequences.
Social isolation is another common cause of poor nutrition in the elderly. The loss of a spouse may cause depression and loneliness, leading to a loss of interest in preparing or eating regular meals. Many men relied on their wives to do the cooking and they may not have the skills to prepare healthy meals. Men often come to rely on unhealthy snacks or prepared foods with high salt or fat content. Women, who loved to cook for their husbands, now find cooking a “chore” and do not derive any pleasure from it. Eating alone is one of the most common reasons behind poor eating habits.
Physical problems, such as gastrointestinal ailments, paralysis from a stroke, pain from arthritis, cognitive changes from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, poor fitting dentures or adverse reactions from medications can all lead to poor nutrition in the elderly. The ability to shop for groceries, prepare meals, or even the act of eating may be greatly affected.
There are several options available to seniors to help them maintain proper nutrition. Home delivered meal programs and congregate meals are some alternatives. Family members may be able to prepare and freeze home-cooked meals or assist with shopping. In some cases, an assisted living community is the answer. An assisted living community usually provides three healthy and nutritious meals daily, as well as snacks. Most communities also offer full social and recreational programs to help with isolation and depression, as well as assistance with activities of daily living. These services are provided while maintaining a resident’s independence and dignity.
For more information on assisted living communities or to schedule a tour, please contact Mary Dembkowski or Margie Veis at Summerhill Villa. Our phone number is 661-254-9933. You may also visit us on the web at www.mbkseniorliving.com .