Healthy Meals & Smoothie Ideas For Aging Parents

ByMark henry
respite care-54b0ae14

It can be a challenge to prepare healthy meals for your parents as they age. Providing proper nutrients keeps the body functioning and provides fuel for energy. Changing taste buds, medications, and special diet requirements are three common issues that require a unique approach as you cook for the elderly.

The leading Edmonton Respite Care wants family caregivers to take a closer look at four meal ideas that provide quality nutrition for your loved one that may also become a new favorite!

1. Oatmeal With Fruit: Fuel for Seniors to Start the Day off Right

Breakfast is an opportunity for seniors to get the energy boost and nutrients needed to start a healthy day. Oatmeal is a good breakfast choice for aging parents because it is:

  • Easy to make/eat: Oatmeal is easy to prepare, keeping things simple in the early morning hours. It is also a soft-textured meal, making it easy to chew.
  • Fiber-rich: Single-serve packets contain at least four grams of fiber. That helps with digestion and bowel movements.
  • Tasty/Nutritious: Fruits provide antioxidants and a variety of tastes.

2. Chicken Wrap: Maintaining With Protein

It can be hard to get your aging parents to eat three meals a day. Lunch is important, providing a chance to recharge for the afternoon. Chicken wraps are a quick solution that provides:

  • Protein: Chicken breast is softer than red meats and provides about 20 grams of protein per serving.
  • Extra goodies: You can add beans, yogurts, and tasty dressing into the wrap. It provides extra nutrients, and you can season it to your parent’s taste.
  • Easy hold: A wrap holds its contents better, and seniors might find it easier than a sandwich.

3. Stuffed Green Peppers: Staying Satiated Through the Night

Many seniors like to eat dinner early enough to avoid indigestion or other issues at bedtime. Using leaner turkey meat and unsalted tomato sauce makes this a filling meal that will keep your aging parents satiated until breakfast.

  • Vitamin C: A small green pepper holds nearly all of the DV% of this crucial vitamin.
  • Reduced Saturated Fats: Turkey is leaner than beef or pork, making it a more heart-healthy option.
  • Tryptothan: Turkey contains this amino acid that promotes sleep. That can be an ideal situation, especially for those concerned about insomnia.

4. Green Smoothies: A Good Option for Seniors at Any Time

Smoothies allow you to blend lots of nutrient-dense foods into a single serving. It is easier for seniors to drink some ingredients if they are hard-to-chew. You can also mask foods your aging parent does not like with other ingredients. Green smoothies offer:

  • Increased fiber: Green smoothies add plenty of insoluble fiber in each serving.
  • Lots of vegetables: Green smoothies make it easy to get lots of fruits and vegetables into a meal.
  • A meal replacement: It could substitute on days that your aging parent’s appetite is waning.

These are some of the most useful tips by respite care Edmonton that can help you provide healthy and delicious meals to your elderly loved ones.