It’s no surprise that senior loved ones will often prefer carbs to carrots (and honestly – who doesn’t?), but you might find it challenging to ensure their nutritional needs are being achieved that way. And you are not alone. Canada's Heart and Stroke Foundation states that more than half of all Canadian adults eat fewer than the recommended five daily servings of vegetables and fruit. Many researchers have found that seniors who do follow these guidelines lower their risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic health issues, and ultimately live longer.
At this point, it’s time to get creative with trying to promote healthier eating habits in a senior’s diet. For instance:
Make it crunchy. There are so many healthy, crunchy alternatives to greasy potato chips for a crispy snack or as a side to enjoy with a sandwich. Pick up a few for the older adult in order to see which ones are most enjoyable: sweet potato, eggplant, kale, beet, radish, green bean, and much more. Or try freeze-dried fruit, another nutritious and crunchy option.
Freeze it up. You can make your own easy, healthy frozen treats by blending fruit with a little water or juice, pouring into popsicle molds, and freezing until solid. These also make a wonderful multi-generational activity! Invite the family members over, let everyone select their favorite flavor to make, and then spend some quality time together while you wait for them to chill before enjoying your personal creations.
Choose convenience. Peeling, chopping, slicing, cooking – the many steps necessary to prepare some fruits and vegetables makes it easier to simply grab a prepackaged snack. Seek out healthy alternatives which are just as easy to grab and enjoy, such as baby carrots, ready-to-eat salads, or other cleaned and sliced veggies, individual cups of fruit, bananas, etc.
Make it smooth. Sauces and smoothies are excellent ways to integrate a number of superfoods. You can easily create a refreshing, tasty drink by blending a little spinach, yogurt and fresh fruit. Or play with pureeing different veggies to mix in with marinara sauce: zucchini, carrots, kale, bell peppers, etc.
Join a CSA. If you have never considered a CSA, now is the perfect time to explore this option. A CSA (community supported agriculture) is a subscription service for fresh produce from local farmers. Learn more and discover a CSA in your area.
The Care Company’s caregivers are experienced in preparing tasty, nutritious meals based on each person’s unique preferences. We are able to pick up all of the ingredients too! Just reach out to us online or at 416-422-2273 for help with enhancing the health of a senior you love with our elderly care in the Greater Toronto area.