Healthy Nutrition For Older Adults

As people get older, they tend to experience less pleasure from food, so they have less desire to eat. That may be one of the reasons why older adults often skip meals or snack on fast foods. This results in poor nutrition, which can seriously threaten their health.

In recognition of Nutrition Month in March, the Broome County Health Department advises older adults and those who care for them that healthy nutrition remains important throughout their lives.

When you choose healthy nutritious foods, you help to reduce the risk of disease and help to control the symptoms and reduce the severity of health problems. Good nutrition can decrease the risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, some cancers, gastrointestinal problems, obesity and underweight, said Jan Chytilo, Director of Health Education for the Broome County Health Department.

Poor nutrition increases the risk and severity of illness, and makes it more difficult to recover, she said. A lack of physical strength or depression made worse by poor health are among the reasons older adults need assisted living care. Healthy nutrition helps to maintain strength, independence and better mental health, she said.

There are many reasons why older adults may fail to get the nutrients they need to protect themselves and maintain a good quality of life. In many cases, people have physical problems, such as loss of teeth or stomach ailments, which discourages them from eating. For them, vegetables and fruits may be easier to consume when canned or prepared as juice, purees or stews.

Older adults may have financial difficulties, or they may be living alone and feel socially isolated and, as a result, lose interest in cooking and mealtime.

Older people may skip meals, lose weight and become undernourished. Or, they may snack on unhealthy foods, frequently eat at fast food outlets, and choose frozen dinners, lunch meats and other highly processed foods. The result is that they may consume too many empty calories, fat, and sodium without getting a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals, Ms. Chytilo said.

New York State provides funding for nutrition programs to help older adults maintain their health. Meals are served to those aged 60 and over in their homes and at many senior centers, schools and other public buildings throughout the state.

By law, each meal must comply with the federal Dietary Guidelines for Americans and provide at least one-third of the recommended dietary allowances for an older adult. These meals also provide opportunities to socialize, which encourages good mental health.

Other nutrition services include nutrition education, screening, counseling and physical activity programs. For those who qualify, food stamps are available to help purchase healthy foods.

Family members and friends can help older adults by talking to them about nutrition programs and helping them complete the necessary forms.

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About The Author:

Amelia Mendoza is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-vitamins.com. Recommending the best vitamins, minerals, herbs and weight loss products for optimum health.