Understanding Dietary and Nutrition Services for Seniors
April 24, 2024
Watching your grandkids grow up, checking things off your bucket list, exploring new experiences.
There’s plenty to do in your golden years, which is why it’s important to stay healthy as you age. One factor that can impact your immune system and physical strength is your diet.
The Importance of Nutrition in Senior Health
Proper nutrition is vital for seniors. As you get older, your metabolism slows, your appetite decreases and your risk for certain diseases increases. You might also be less active, which can lead to weak muscles and bones.
Your body requires fewer calories as your metabolism slows and you become less active. But your body actually needs more vitamins, minerals and fiber. Following a healthy diet and making lifestyle changes can help you get the nutrients you need to stay strong and healthy.
Types of Dietary and Nutrition Services for Seniors
Dietary services include:
- Nutritional counseling: Work with a dietician to create a personalized plan and receive ongoing coaching to meet your health goals.
- Education: Learn how foods impact your overall health and how key changes can make a difference in your daily diet.
- Meal planning: A dietary expert can design the right meals to ensure you receive proper nutrition throughout the week.
- Recipe development: Discover new recipes that suit your dietary plan with help from a nutritionist.
Tailored Nutrition Plans
Your first instinct may be to research different foods if your doctor recommends dietary changes. There are helpful online tips and resources, but those insights aren’t specific to your unique needs.
That’s why it’s helpful to talk with a registered dietician when changing your diet. He or she can design a nutrition plan that’s tailored to your needs, health conditions, preferences and goals.
Nutritional Counseling for Senior Wellness
You may consider nutritional counseling if you require continual guidance on dietary best practices.
A dietician will:
- Assess your nutrition history and current needs
- Create a plan with a specific goal in mind
- Help you navigate your new diet
- Monitor your progress
- Track your results
Specialized Diets
Low sugar: Focus on high-fiber carbohydrates, lean proteins and healthy fats if your doctor recommends a low-sugar diet. Avoid refined sugar and carbs, deep-fried foods, high-fat dairy and animal products, alcohol and sugary drinks like juice and pop.
Low sodium: Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk for kidney disease and heart disease. Limit salt consumption by eating fresh fruits, vegetables and meat. Shop for food items labeled “unsalted” or “no salt added.” Pay attention to the amount of sodium in canned goods, bottled dressings, sauces and flavored drinks.
Plant-based: Studies show that vegan and plant-based diets can help lower cholesterol levels and even reduce your risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes and beans. And consider plant-based alternatives to common animal-based foods, such as milk, cheese and meat.
Texture-modified: Pureed and soft foods may be necessary if you have a condition that makes it difficult to chew or swallow. Consuming pureed solids and thick, nutrient-dense liquids can help you get the nutrition you need.
Dietary and Nutrition Care Services at Embassy Healthcare
At Embassy Healthcare, our chefs and nutrition specialists are passionate about providing meals that satisfy your unique nutritional needs. We accommodate a variety of dietary preferences, from gluten-free to vegetarian.
