Nutritional requirements change over our lifetime, from rapid development in infancy to the balanced needs of childhood, the energy demands of adulthood to the specific needs of aging individuals. During each phase, it is vital to pay attention to dietary intake to maintain good health and well-being.
In this blog post, we focus on the special considerations and nutritional concerns that affect senior care assistance in Portland and how to address them.
Some Nutritional Challenges for Seniors
Various challenges emerge as we age, including:
- The sense of taste and smell diminishes, leading to decreased appetite and a desire to eat.
- Dental issues and other medical conditions can make chewing and swallowing difficult.
- A reduced food intake can result in nutritional deficiencies of vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B12, C, D and folic acid.
- Disrupted eating patterns can lead to dramatic weight gain or loss and can signify other underlying health issues.
Tips for Promoting Healthy Eating
- Regular mealtimes: Consistent meal schedules to stimulate the appetite.
- Appealing meals: Food presented in a visually appealing way with colorful plates and garnishes.
- Wide variety of foods: Include a wide range of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Special dietary considerations: Paying attention to food sensitivities and allergies and working hand-in-hand with a dietitian or other healthcare provider to develop personalized meal plans when necessary.
- Keeping hydrated: Drinking enough water and other liquids throughout the day.
- Monitoring food intake: Tracking food and liquid intake and regular weighing to spot potential issues quickly.
The Role of Assisted Living in Nutritional Care
Assisted living communities play a crucial role in supporting the nutritional needs of seniors. At Arcadia Senior Living, we offer a variety of services including:
- Specialized diets: Specific dietary requirements like diabetes, low sodium, allergies, or sensitivities can be accommodated.
- Social dining: Meals are served in our beautiful dining area, which provides the perfect backdrop for residents to connect over a quality meal. We firmly believe that social dining stimulates appetites and promotes social interaction.
- Chef-prepared meals: Our meals are delicious and nutritious. Our expert team of chefs is committed to providing the highest quality meals every day.
Contact Arcadia Senior Living today to find out more about our special considerations for senior nutrition at our senior care facility in Portland. We are locally owned and operated, focusing on personalized care, purposeful living, and happy residents.
