How Proper Nutrition Enhances Senior Health in Long-Term Care

Why Nutrition is Essential for Seniors

Your loved one’s metabolism slows with age, which means they require fewer calories to sustain their energy levels and body systems. However, that can make it difficult for them to get important nutrients when they’re eating less. Reduced gastric volume can also occur in seniors, limiting the amount of space in their stomach and decreasing their appetite.

Nutrition in long-term care facilities allows your loved one to get essential vitamins and minerals to support their physical, cognitive and emotional health.

A balanced diet can:

• Strengthen immunity
• Improve bone strength
• Support chronic disease management
• Boost energy
• Enhance cognitive function

How a Balanced Diet Improves Wellness in Long-Term Care

Mental and Emotional Support Through Diet

A balanced diet can combat cellular aging that contributes to cognitive decline. The brain needs healthy fats and antioxidants to negate the effects of oxidative stress, which occurs when your loved one is exposed to environmental irritants like pollution. Maintaining their cognitive ability may reduce your senior’s risk of memory loss, dementia, depression and anxiety.

You can find the following nutrients in a variety of foods:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fats build brain cell membranes and reduce inflammation. They’re found in salmon, mackerel, mussels, chia seeds and walnuts.
• Antioxidants: Eating antioxidants protects the brain from cell damage that impairs cognitive function. The best food sources are berries, leafy greens, almonds, turmeric and dark chocolate.
• Vitamin B: Your loved one can energize their brain cells by eating foods packed with Vitamin B, like eggs, whole grains and legumes.

Maintaining Physical Strength

Muscle mass naturally declines with age, especially if your loved one leads a more sedentary lifestyle. A diet of protein and healthy fats can help them maintain their strength, increase muscle and support their joints. Physical wellness through proper nutrition allows for efficient physical recovery from illnesses, injuries, surgeries, and hospitalizations. Combining nutritious meals and consistent movement allows your loved one to preserve their independence and lead a more active lifestyle.

Look for protein and anti-inflammatory nutrients in:

• Broccoli
• Avocados
• Eggs
• Poultry
• Beef
• Beans

Consistent Energy

Food is broken down into carbohydrates, fats and proteins, which your loved one’s body uses for energy to power their muscles, brain and nervous system. A poor diet may result in malnutrition and leave your senior feeling physically weak and mentally tired. Skipping meals slows their metabolic rate as their body tries to conserve energy, so eating regularly provides them with a steady supply of calories to stabilize their metabolism. Reduced physical activity can also affect their metabolism, which can occur in long-term care if your loved one has limited mobility.

Here are some healthy food sources that boost energy:

• Carbohydrates: Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and oats
• Fats: Olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds
• Protein: Tofu, nuts, Greek yogurt

Tips to Promote Healthy Eating in Long-Term Care

• Focus on nutrient-dense meals to maintain muscle mass.
• Encourage your loved one to include a variety of fruits and vegetables on at least half of their plate.
• Discuss ways to incorporate protein in every meal with their care team.
• Pair protein with whole grains to stabilize their blood sugar.
• Offer your senior water throughout the day, not just during meals.
• Include hydrating foods like melons, oranges, cucumbers and tomatoes in their meals.
• Use herbs and spices to enhance flavor and boost their appetite.
• Encourage social dining to make eating a communal experience.

Personalized Long-Term Senior Care at Embassy

Your loved one’s nutrition is the foundation of their wellness, which is why we prioritize it when creating their personalized care plan. Our certified dietitians and nutritionists conduct thorough evaluations and work closely with your senior’s primary physician to determine if they face any deficiencies that could impact their recovery and wellness. Learn more about our nutrition services and contact one of our locations to schedule a community tour.