Are you worried that your senior parent isn’t eating enough? Malnutrition is a big concern for a lot of family members because seniors tend to eat less as they get older. Even if your senior parent is eating regular meals, they might not be getting the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy.
If your senior parent has Alzheimer’s, they have a very high risk of malnutrition because seniors who have Alzheimer’s often forget to eat, have sensory issues that make eating unpleasant or can’t express when they are hungry or thirsty.
Alzheimer’s care is strongly recommended for seniors with Alzheimer’s. The caregivers who specialize in Alzheimer’s care have training and experience working with seniors who have Alzheimer’s. They know how to read your senior parent’s body language and non-verbal communication. And they can encourage your mom or dad to eat throughout the day.
Some tried-and-true methods that you can use to get your mom or dad to eat more and to eat regularly are:
Try Serving Small, Frequent Meals
It’s very common for seniors to prefer small, frequent meals instead of three heavy meals every day. Seniors tend to have less appetite, so eating a little at a time is more appealing to them. And eating smaller amounts frequently can be better for their digestion. Instead of three large meals, offer smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
Serve Meals Made Of Nutrient-Dense Foods
Focus on serving your mom or dad foods that are high in nutrients but not too filling. Include healthy fats like avocados, nuts, and seeds, lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables to maximize nutrient intake in smaller portions. Getting the biggest nutritional bang for the buck will help ensure that your senior parent doesn’t become malnourished.
Serve Their Favorite Foods
Incorporate their favorite foods and flavors into meals. Familiar and enjoyable foods can make mealtime more appealing. If possible, modify these favorites to be healthier by sneaking in some vegetables. If your senior parent prefers hearty meals but doesn’t have a huge appetite cook their favorite meal then immediately portion it into small portions and put each portion in a microwave container. Freeze the extra portions. That way your mom or dad can pull one of out of the freezer and heat it up when they are hungry.
Make Meals More Fun
Encourage eating together as a family or with friends. If your senior parent has Alzheimer’s care, their home care provider can share meals with them and help them clean up after the meal. Social interaction during meals can make the experience more enjoyable and can stimulate appetite.
Stock Up On Easy-to-Eat Snacks
Provide readily available easy-to-eat snacks, such as yogurt, cheese slices, fruit, or pre-cut vegetables. These can be convenient options for seniors to eat between meals without much effort. You or Alzheimer’s care providers can buy pre-cut veggies and dip trays, pre-washed and cut fruit in containers, and other convenience foods that are fantastic for snacks. Pre-cut cheese and a sleeve of crackers with some grapes is a fantastic, healthy, but easy snack for seniors.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Alzheimer’s Care in Newtown, CT, please contact the caring staff at Connecticut Nursing Services today. 203-730-2739
