Nutrition and hydration play a crucial role in maintaining good health and well-being of elderly people. As individuals age, their nutritional needs may change, making it even more important to pay attention to their dietary intake. Here at Bel Aire we know the importance of proper hydration and nutrition to insure our seniors’ health. Below are some of our insights on why nutrition and hydration are essential for elderly individuals.
Overall Health
Good nutrition and hydration are fundamental for maintaining overall health. Adequate nutrition provides the body with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals required for various bodily functions. Healthy eating and proper hydration also boosts the immune system. This is crucial for our older loved ones. As we age our immune system naturally declines making us more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help with faster recoveries and fighting off sicknesses.
Lastly, it will support normal and healthy aging. Aging is inevitable but that doesn’t mean it has to be painful. Aging increases risk of bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis. Getting adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D are vital to bone health and reducing the risk of fractures. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods can also help to meet these requirements.
Cognitive function
Did you know that what you eat can also affect your brain? Certain nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), Vitamin B (found in whole grains), and antioxidants from fruits and vegetables are associated with the brain and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Water also plays a role. Without adequate water intake people of any age can become dizzy and disoriented. However, our seniors often have a diminished sense of thirst due to lack of activity and forgetfulness. Frequently, this leads to falls when they’ve forgotten to drink water.
Bel Aire’s Meal Plan
Below is an example of what our Residents eat in a day. Lunch being the big meal of the day and dinner is a lunch sized meal.
|
Breakfast |
Lunch |
Dinner |
|
-Scrambled Eggs -Sausage Links -Fresh Fruit -Whole grain Toast -Juice |
-Spaghetti & Meat Sauce -Tossed Green Salad -Cheese Bread -Beverage of choice -Peach Cobbler |
-Chicken Tacos -Spanish Green Beans -Mexican Rice -Beverage of choice |
As shown above we incorporate all food groups to ensure that all the vital nutrients are getting to our residents. We do our absolute best with each meal. This is to make sure we provide them with the food that will best help their body continue to function and energize them. The energy that comes from food will also prevent falls and help with more independent behavior. Our priority is our residents’ health. A lot of the reasoning for their healthy living comes from our kitchen.
