Menu Planning and Meal Preparation Are Benefits of Elder Care

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that 61% of adults 65 or older are making poor food choices. Over three out of ten participants were eating an “intermediate” quality diet. Those meeting the American Heart Association’s recommended dietary guidelines were rare.

The American Heart Association looked at these items when determining the score:

• Fatty meats prime rib (Poor)
• High-sodium foods (Poor)
• Lean proteins like chicken and tofu (Ideal)
• Nuts, seeds, and legumes (Ideal)
• Processed foods high in saturated fat (Poor)
• Processed meats (Poor)
• Seafood (Ideal)
• Sugar-added beverages (Poor)
• Vegetables and fruits (Ideal)
• Whole grains (Ideal)

A poor diet is not ideal as it increases the risk of chronic health conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. It can also increase the risk of arthritis, especially if a person is overweight.

You worry about your mom’s diet. She doesn’t like to cook, so she often gets frozen pizzas and takeout. Not only is she not varying her diet, but she’s also sticking to foods that are very high in sodium and food. You need to help her.

Have you looked into meal preparation and planning services from an elder care agency? Here are some of the leading reasons to hire caregivers to help her with meals and snacks.

She’ll Eat a Variety of Foods

Your mom enjoys a variety of foods when she has a caregiver cooking for her. She’ll get a mix of whole grains, produce, and lean proteins.

She Still Gets to Eat What She Wants

Your mom can eat what she wants, but she has a caregiver guiding her toward healthier options. Your mom is craving meatloaf and baked potato for dinner. Her caregiver can help her choose a recipe for a turkey meatloaf and pick out a vegetable to go with it.

She Has Help With Shopping

Your mom’s elder care aide can help her build a shopping list. Once that’s ready, her caregiver can take her shopping and help her pick out the right ingredients. Your mom has someone with her to read the fine print in ingredient lists.

When the grocery shopping is done, your mom’s caregiver can put things away. Reusable bags get cleaned out before they’re put back into the trunk of the car or pantry until they’re needed again.

Someone Else Cleans Up

Your mom will love the idea of having someone else cook her meals and snacks. Plus, she knows she’s not the one cleaning up after. She’s free to go work on her jigsaw while her caregiver washes dishes.

Leftovers are stored properly. Your mom ends up with extras in the refrigerator that she can heat in the microwave.

Make the arrangements your mom needs by scheduling home care services. An elder care aide can help your mom with all aspects of meal planning and preparation. Call an agency to learn more.

If you or an aging loved-one is considering Elder Care in Arlington, VA please contact the caring staff at Thrive Health Care Services today. (703) 992-0484

Sources:
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2789924