Food needs and changes may occur with age. It is common for seniors to need to make changes to their meals in order to improve their health and well-being. However, in many instances, starting a new diet can be hard. This is why a strong support team that starts with loved ones and companion care at home is vital. Working together, seniors can be encouraged to take the first step and be consistent as they get used to a new diet and any other lifestyle changes that are needed.
Working With a Healthcare Professional
Often, the need to make a diet change comes from a healthcare professional. However, if this is not the case, seniors should talk with their medical team before making changes. Based on their health, nutritional needs, and goals, a doctor or certified dietitian can make personalized suggestions. Once this occurs, companion care at home can assist seniors in making a personalized food plan that ensures they get all the nutrients they need. In addition, the home care team can help seniors shop, prep, and even cook food to help them acclimate to the changes.
Changes Take Time
Making big changes to their food all of a sudden can be hard to handle, especially if they’re getting used to other changes as well. Instead, companion care at home can help seniors make changes slowly. This method makes it more likely they will stick to the new diet and helps them process their feelings about the changes. Plus, seniors who work toward their food goals over time give their digestive systems and taste buds time to get used to the new foods.
Be Mindful About Diet Choices
There are always choices when it comes to a new diet. Making the right choice can help it last longer. Encourage seniors to talk with their medical team if the new diet mandate comes from them to ask about diet options rather than having to stick to only one. Diets that are too strict can make seniors feel frustrated, while those that give them a wider range of options will seem more accessible.
Pay Attention to Issues With Texture
Some older people may have trouble chewing or swallowing because of tooth issues or other health problems. In these situations, the taste of some foods might need to be changed to make sure they are safe to eat. This can mean choosing lighter foods or pureeing or mashing them. Encourage them to talk to a medical worker or speech therapist for advice on how to change the texture in the right way. In addition, the companion care at home team might be able to introduce new ways to fix foods so that texture isn’t an issue.
Getting used to a new diet can be very hard, especially for older people. Seniors can easily adjust to a new eating plan that is good for their health and well-being if they get the right help and understanding. Loved ones and the home care team can help seniors adopt a healthier lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of a well-balanced diet by encouraging them to talk to health experts, helping them make small changes over time, and getting them involved in planning and making meals.
Sources:
https://health.gov/news/202107/nutrition-we-age-healthy-eating-dietary-guidelines
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-age-better-by-eating-more-healthfully/
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-eating-for-seniors
If you or an aging loved one are considering companion care at home in Anson, TX, please contact the caring staff at Clear Path Home Care today. Call 325-244-0877.
Clear Path Home Care provides compassionate, high quality home care in Childress County, Cottle County, King County, Stonewall County, Fisher County, Nolan County, Hardeman County, Foard County, Knox County, Haskell County, Jones County and Taylor County in Texas.
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