Keeping Your Elderly Loved One Healthy
No matter what our age, it’s always important to stay hydrated and get proper nutrition. Adopting good eating habits and getting proper nutrition provides us with the sustenances that what we need to stay healthy. Staying hydrated and eating a proper diet can also prevent many types of illnesses and chronic health problems — especially for elderly seniors. Here’s what you need to know:
How to Identify Malnutrition
The elderly are more prone to eat poorly and being picky when it comes to food and can lead to malnourishment. If your loved one displays any of the following warning signs, they may not be getting proper nutrition:
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Weakened muscles
- Tired and lethargic
- Falling
- Constipation
- Skin sores
- Dull skin
- Depression
- Memory loss/decline in cognitive function
- Increased infections/illnesses
How To Prevent Malnourishment in Elderly Seniors
If you have a picky eater on your hands, here are some tips on how you can get your elderly loved one to eat healthier.
- Break up meals into smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Find out what your elderly loved one likes to eat to encourage their appetite.
- Have ready-to-eat healthy snacks available such as vegetables, fruits, and Greek yogurt.
- Prepare meals ahead of time for easy access.
- Plan your visits around mealtimes, and eat with your loved one.
- Keep up with routine checkups and well visits.
Warning Signs of Dehydration
Staying hydrated keeps your cells, organs, and tissues functioning properly. Elderly seniors must drink enough fluids as dehydration can cause a decline in energy as well as cause muscle cramping, headaches, and constipation. Here are the warning signs that your elderly loved one may be suffering from dehydration:
- Dry mouth
- Concentrated/dark urine
- Infrequent urination
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness/unbalanced
- Change in mood
- Lack of mobility
- Confusion
- Urinary tract infections (UTI)
Ways to Stay Hydrated
While drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, there are other things you can do to help your elderly loved one get the right amount of hydration. Try incorporating the following hydrating foods and drinks:
- Infuse water with lemon, cucumbers or oranges
- Green tea (hot or cold without sugar)
- Low-sodium broths or soups
- Watermelon
How and Assisted Living Community Can Help
When it comes to the health of our residents, The Arbors Assisted Living is a community that encourages elderly seniors to live a healthy lifestyle by providing them with proper nutrition. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your elderly loved one live a healthy and active life!