The CDC reports that more than 17% of American adults have some type of special diet plan.
If you're looking for senior dining options in assisted living, then meal plans are the solution. They work to pack your day with healthy, nutritious foods while removing the prep work associated with cooking.
The great thing about assisted living meal plans is that they offer something for everyone. If you're looking for low-sodium foods, they have you covered. The same holds true for anyone on a vegetarian or gluten-free diet.
But what are some of the other added benefits of elderly nutrition programs, and why are they important? This helpful guide explains it all.
Meal plans aim to offer all residents balanced diets specifically for older adults. These plans include:
These custom meal plans also include a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, ensuring seniors receive plenty of nutrients and antioxidants.
Meal plans work to help seniors enjoy balanced meals. Here are some key benefits.
It's normal for energy levels to decline with age. This doesn't mean there's nothing that seniors can do to combat low energy levels; special diet plans can help them feel more invigorated, making meal planning essential in an assisted living community.
For example, seniors need diets that have plenty of nutrients and essential vitamins. By factoring in these essential elements, seniors can benefit from improved bone health, cardiovascular health, and better immune function, to name a few things.
Some key vitamins and minerals include:
When older adults have meal plans with well-balanced ingredients, they can also benefit from a healthy weight.
As we age, we may feel less hungry. This can be common for older adults, so long as there aren't any other underlying health issues. Unfortunately, seniors are susceptible to malnutrition, so eating regular meals is essential.
With meal plans in assisted living, older adults benefit from easy access to food so when hunger strikes, they're not prepping meals. Regularly scheduled meals in communal settings work to encourage seniors to eat and get the nutrients they need to stay healthy.
According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, upwards of 34% of older adults feel isolated. Scheduled meals allow people to come together and eat, talk, and relax.
These meal plans can be in a formal dining area or in something informal like a cafeteria. Some residents prefer in-room dining and can turn mealtime into a quiet get-together among friends.
It's possible for certain foods to help with memory, but older adults may not have a balanced diet needed for this. By introducing healthy meals in senior care, older adults have access to a wide variety of foods that improve cognitive function.
For example, seniors benefit from the antioxidant properties of leafy greens. This includes vitamin C, which has been linked to improved memory with age.
It's not uncommon for older adults to have dietary restrictions, especially if they have a medical condition. Older adults may also be on a restricted diet if they have issues with chewing and swallowing. This can make meal times challenging, but scheduled meal plans make eating that much more enjoyable.
Chefs can prepare custom meals for seniors, including pureed foods to make eating much easier. These foods should be vibrant in color and have plenty of flavor to make eating as appealing as possible. Even if an older adult can't or doesn't want to eat much in one sitting, scheduled meal plans allow them to eat a well-balanced diet all day long.
Customized diets for seniors typically include scheduled meals for them to enjoy at specified times. The chef might prepare set items or, in assisted living communities with restaurants, residents can choose what they'd like to order.
Throughout the day, these meal plans usually include the following:
Non-alcoholic drinks are also included, and there are usually several options to choose from for anyone who has dietary restrictions.
There are many different breakfast options in assisted living, but it's common to see coffee and toast, along with fruit, yogurt, eggs, and an assortment of hot and cold cereals. Juices are also available.
Lunchtime typically consists of different salads, ensuring everyone gets the proper nutrients for their day. There are also soups to choose from and several vegetable and protein-based choices.
It's common to see different sandwiches offered during this time of day.
Dinnertime usually offers common meals, such as burgers, chicken dishes, steak, and much more. As with lunch, cold sandwiches may be available. After dinner, residents have various desserts to choose from, so long as they don't have dietary restrictions.
Residents can choose from custom dishes to help them manage their weight or maintain a heart-healthy diet. No matter what your specialized dietary needs are, custom meal plans work to accommodate them.
Assisted living communities are known for their meal plans, working to keep all residents well-fed and happy throughout the day. These custom meal plans take into consideration a variety of dietary needs and offer older adults an array of delicious and nutritious foods to choose from. Not only does this alleviate the stress of cooking, but it ensures the elderly are eating well-balanced meals all day long.
If you or your loved one is interested in the meal plans that come with assisted living, then you'll love Taylor Place Assisted Living. In addition to healthy food options, we offer a robust wellness program, along with an activity room and plenty of community outings. Learn more about our community in Findlay, OH, and contact us today.