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Nutrition is important at any age, but even more so for older adults. As you age, cell turnover begins to slow down, making it more difficult for your body to repair itself as it should. Unfortunately, due to various factors, many older adults can begin to lose their appetites.

If you are worried your parent or loved one is not eating as they should, the senior care team from Visiting Angels in Toms River, NJ, is here to help. Below, their team offers some tips for stimulating your loved one’s appetite:

  • Encourage Exercise: It is important for older adults to get enough exercise. Engaging in light to moderate aerobic exercises such as walking, dancing, or swimming helps to maintain muscle and bone health, and fight depression. Additionally, regular exercise creates a calorie deficit in the body, which stimulates appetite and can encourage eating.
  • Keep Healthy Snacks Around the House: Keep raw fruits, vegetables, and other healthy snacks around the house at all times. These snacks ensure your parent or loved one will have enough to eat at all times, which is especially important if they are in an independent living facility. These snacks will satisfy their nutritional needs and keep them away from unhealthy foods such as chips and candy.
  • Look Into Juicing & Smoothies: Many older adults lose their appetites as the result of dental and gastrointestinal issues. Problems such as tooth loss or ulcers can make it difficult to consume most foods or keep them down. Creating juices and smoothies which include fruits, vegetables, and seeds will help them get the nutrients they need without exacerbating other health issues.
  • Stick to a Schedule: If your loved one has a hectic schedule, it can be difficult for them to prepare foods or eat as often as they should. Get them on a schedule that includes set meal times. If cooking is a challenge for them due to mobility, looking into senior care services that offer meal preparation as an effective solution.
  • Make Sure They Have Friends: Companionship can have a huge impact on a person’s health and nutrition. Older adults who do not socialize with their peers are more prone to depression, which can negatively impact their appetite. Encourage your loved one to join book clubs, card games, and visit senior centers where they can spend time and make friends.

If you need more help with senior care, turn to the professionals at Visiting Angels in Toms River, NJ. These independent living experts will work with you to ensure your loved one remains healthy and happy. Get in touch with their team by calling (732) 240-1050, and visit their website for more information on their home care services today.

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