Nutrition: Elder People

Here are some of the suggested tips to maintain a healthy diet for elders


• Choose low fat and low cholesterol food


• Reduce daily sodium intake, use small amount of salt in cooking; as high sodium intake aggravate high blood pressure


• Don't use nutritional supplements like vitamins and minerals unless it is needed


• Increase the fiber content in your food to keep your bowel movement regular as this prevents constipation


• Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables


• Eat more beans which are high in fiber content and can be a less expensive source of protein


• Drink plenty of water, at least 8 cups of liquid are needed each day (fruit juice, milk and soup)


• Increase the calcium content in your food


• Be active and exercise more often and avoid strenuous exercise.

Nutrient intake for elder people can be affected by many factors:


• Depression

• Loneliness

• Sedentary lifestyle

• Lose of interest in food

• Physical disability

How to set up the right environment for meals:


• Serve your elder person warm food which is tastier to him


• Encourage him to eat with family and friends and to share shopping and cooking activities whenever possible


• Provide a suitable environment to him since it will affect their appetite like:


• Bright light and uncluttered room


• Cooking and eating utensils should be light weight, colorful and non-breakable

Finally, remember that keeping a healthy diet will not only help them get through their day but it will enhance their daily physical activity and therefore, make them feel good about themselves.