One aspect of caring for elderly parents is by taking care of their nutritional needs. As they grow older, their nutritional needs alter drastically. As metabolism rates slow down as we age, the elderly are more susceptible to being sick or incurring diseases and hence their needs need to be catered to.
If you are currently caring for an elderly parent and are wondering how to ensure they have a balanced diet and are consuming just the right nutrients, we have summarized a list for you to view so you can include them comprehensively and conveniently in their lifestyles.
Is it feasible to provide financial assistance from them without becoming bankrupt?
OMEGA 3
This is an essential nutrient that needs to be added to the diet of an aging parent. Common sources of omega 3 include fish, mackerel, and salmon. The fatty acids included in these food sources are beneficial for muscle growth and brain health for the elderly. A deficit of this ingredient could therefore lead to possible risks of Alzheimer’s.
CALCIUM
Calcium is essential for bone health, especially at an old age when bodily calcium starts to deplete. Rich calcium sources include yogurt, milk, and cheese. Elderly people need an adequate dosage of calcium in order to sustain their bone health and to avoid possible risks of arthritis. Surprisingly, a lack of calcium means the body starts to extract calcium from other sources in the body, and this depletes the overall nutrition present in the body.
IRON
We might not even understand the importance of this nutrient. It is the backbone of all the bodily functions that keep us alive. From producing blood to keeping the skin healthy, iron is very important in our diet. As we age, the iron level in our body naturally starts to exhaust and we must replenish it. Common sources of iron are red meat however if you would like to choose a vegan option for your elderly parents, tomatoes are a great source of iron. The inclusion of iron sources has proven to be beneficial in preventing prostate cancer and lung cancer hence it is advisable to include this supplement to protect your elderly parent.
MAGNESIUM
Magnesium is essential for memory retention and sleep patterns. Elderly people experience troubles in both these aspects of life as they age and hence magnesium sources need to be included in their diet. Common magnesium sources are nuts such as cashews, almonds, and peanuts. Moreover, magnesium aids vision and improves diminishing vision which seems to be a common problem in the elderly.
PROTEIN
Protein makes up a huge part of the food chart for a balanced diet. It promotes cell repair, cell turnover, skin health, teeth health, and even gut health. Common sources of protein include legumes, beans, and veggies. Ensure that your elderly parent is getting enough protein in their diet.
Final Thoughts
At an old age, elderly parents need excessive care in regard to their diet. Their bodily functions start to work in reverse and they need constant replenishment of nutrients. Elderly people should exercise particular caution when it comes to health and safety and eat well to reduce their risk of sickness. This is true since becoming older makes people more vulnerable to certain ailments. Consequently, consuming proper meals will assist increase activity levels in seniors coupled with frequent exercise.