When seniors begin to lose their sense of taste or smell, meal time can be challenging, because with aging comes decreased appetite, and when food lacks flavor or has a bad taste it becomes easy to neglect nutrition; opening the doors to all kinds of other health problems.

Of course, for seniors who are experiencing loss of the senses, like smell and taste, the first step towards improvement is to seek medical attention; however, that doesn’t mean they have to suffer through tasteless meals to remain healthy. Seniors with deficiencies with taste and smell may experience any combination of the following problems when it comes to tasting their meals: food may taste too sweet, too salty, or too metallic; meats might taste unusual; or the food may generally lack flavor.

Sauces, marinades and other ingredients added during food preparation and cooking can greatly enhance the flavor and make it more enjoyable. Whether a senior cooks for themselves or has someone provide elder care services in their home, including meal preparation, a few simple ingredients can easily be added to cooking at little cost, including:

• Barbeque sauce

• Ketchup

• Meat marinades

• Mustard

• Salad dressing

• Soy sauce

• Spices and herbs

• Teriyaki sauce

• Vinegar

• Wine

• Extracts or other flavorings

Additional ingredients that can add flavor when added to ready-prepared foods are:

• Cheeses – especially the very flavorful, like sharp cheddars

• Chopped green pepper or other vegetables

• Chopped onion

• Nuts and seeks

• Bacon bits or ham strips

Meals prepared for seniors  with declining senses should also focus upon other elements, like presentation, texture and color; because overall, an attractive meal is more appealing and texture adds diversity and interest to the food even if strong flavors are absent. Plastic utensils can also be used to limit metallic tastes, and drinking often or eating mints to clear any bad tastes from their mouths before a meal can also make it more enjoyable.

Age and good nutrition should go hand in hand for a long healthy life, so make sure all meals are enjoyed!

Source: Mayo clinic 

Carol Marak Carebuzz

As we age, our bodies begin to process vitamins and minerals less efficiently, which can result in deficiencies of necessary vitamins in seniors. Taking vitamin supplements to increase intake of calcium, vitamins B & D, iron, etc. seems to be many seniors' answer for the lack of nutrients they're getting, but the benefits are still up for debate. According to a study released by the Archives of Internal Medicine, vitamin supplements may not do anything when it comes to improving senior health.

Studies have proven that vitamins, minerals and nutrients derived from fruits, vegetables and whole grains do promote healthy aging, however, when these vitamins are extracted and taken as vitamin supplements, they don't have the same affects upon preventing cancer and cardiovascular diseases as they do in their natural forms. While the belief is that there are no adverse affects from taking vitamin supplements, there is little medical data that supports there is a benefit to regular use.

Seniors looking to improve their overall health and prevent the onset of potentially fatal diseases and illnesses should not rely on vitamin supplements alone; in order to receive the 15 minerals and 13 vitamins required for healthy living, the elderly should focus on proper nutrition and receive their vitamins directly from the source.

Source: Forbes.com

Carol Marak Carebuzz 

Some seniors and caregivers are always on the go; with full social calendars and a host of responsibilities, it can be hard to find time to squeeze in a healthy meal, but to keep energy levels up, nutritious food options, even on the go are a must! Here are some great ideas for ways to keep both seniors and caregivers refueled and feeling good no matter where they are throughout the day.

1. Fruits - fruits are easy to pop into a bag or purse to take with you wherever you go. Try an apple, orange, or banana; these don't bruise as easily and are easily transportable without mess. You can also take mixed berries in a small Tupperware container.

2. Dried fruits and vegetables - dried items really can go anywhere with you, and they offer the same nutritional benefits as the fresh variety. Take raisins, cranberries, banana chips, vegetable chips or other dried produce items.

3. Take trail mix - trail mix is designed for snacking on the go; you can either purchase one ready-mixed that is low in sodium and sugary content or make your own with mixed nuts, dried fruit, cereal, and even dark chocolate chips.

4. Enjoy fresh vegetables - slice up some raw vegetables like carrots, cucumber, celery, mixed peppers and other vegetables that won't begin to turn brown right after they're sliced.

5. Carry crackers - make some crackers (whole grain) with peanut butter or cheese for added protein, that will give you needed energy restoration during the day.

6. Take a thermos - using an insulated thermos will allow you to take soup, or cold drinks out with you.

Via: Associated Content  

Carol Marak Carebuzz

For many seniors, the risk of developing Alzheimers and dementia is one of their biggest fears  because these are cognitive conditions that can threaten to take away those memories that have been so important to them. A change in diet might sound too good to be true when it comes to lowering the risk of dementia , but a recent study conducted over a large number of years shows that in fact, dietary changes can make a difference in lowering the risk factors. In fact, there is evidence that a Mediterranean Diet can lower the risk by 28%.

Caregivers can help seniors make small changes to their diets that follow the principles of the Mediterranean Diet. Here are some of the important components that make up this diet:

 Whole grains and potatoes - whole grains make up a big part of the Mediterranean diet and while potatoes do play a role, they are consumed only in moderation to avoid some of the potentially negative effects of the high starch and carb content.

 Olive oil - olive oil has been an important component of the Mediterranean diet, even at a time when it was believed in some cultures that the high fat content should be avoided. Now, we know that the fat in extra virgin olive oil actually helps reduce bad cholesterol and provides strength to the heart which directly relates to the health of the mind.

 Fresh produce and nuts - all fruits and vegetables have the same essential benefits, but some unique items from this diet include artichokes, sundried tomatoes, and dried beans like chick peas.

 Cheese and yogurt - lower fat cultured dairy foods are essential in a Mediterranean diet.

 Fish - at least 6 ounces of fish, preferably fresh a week makes up this nutritional diet.

 Wine - the Greeks often drink a glass of wine a day.

 Healthy deserts  sweets aren't common in a Mediterranean diet, the focus is typically upon fresh fruit to follow a meal.

Sources:

NYTimes blog

Revolution Health

Carol Marak Carebuzz

You might not enjoy mealtime like you use to, and that is a problem that many seniors experience as they age . For some, it is an emotional issue, since mealtimes that once were family get-togethers can feel lonely; while for others, it’s physical since food is just no longer as enjoyable or as tasty as it once was. Here are some tips to make sure that you still get adequate nutrition during your senior years, to help you overcome the psychological and physical issues that can effect mealtime and aging.

1. Choose food items that have a lot of nutrients – you may not have an appetite to eat a large meal, but make sure you get the nutrients . Focus on choosing items that have a moderate number of calories and that are also high in fiber and calcium.

2. Add flavor to foods – choose items that are naturally flavorful that taste good to you, or use spices to enhance the foods to your taste.

3. Choose foods that are easy to chew – it’s important to choose foods that are easy to chew and eat, and even easier to digest.

4. Don’t get too elaborate – if you’re a senior preparing foods yourself, pick items that are healthy but also simple.

5. Pick meals that are visually attractive – foods that are more attractive to the eye are automatically more appealing to eat, so pick foods with lots of colors that look good on the plate!

Source: Helpguide.org

by Carol Marak Carebuzz