Senior care includes helping older adults maintain balanced diets. Some foods have nutritional value for people of all ages, but especially seniors. Here are some of the ingredients that contain nutrients and vitamins that help those in their golden years.

Which Foods Benefit Older Adults?

1. Dairy

Cheese, yogurt, and milk are high in calcium, which promotes healthy bones. Dairy products are also high in vitamin D, which becomes harder for the body to produce naturally with age.

Vitamin D and calcium work together to slow bone density loss associated with osteoporosis. 

2. Fatty Fish

Salmon, sardines, mackerel, and tuna don’t have a lot of calories or saturated fat. However, they contain plenty of protein, boosting energy levels.

These fish are also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce bad cholesterol and promote healthy cholesterol. Omega-3 is beneficial to the brain and may improve memory function in people with dementia.

3. Whole Grains

These are rich in B vitamins, which are natural energy boosters. They also help with weight management and are loaded with fiber, reducing uncomfortable constipation symptoms associated with opioid pain relievers and antispasmodics. Examples of whole-grain foods include brown rice, corn, and wheat.

4. Carrots

Carrots are especially beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s. Studies show that the ferulic acid they contain may help reverse cognitive deficit, restoring some memory. Rich in vitamin A, they also promote sharp eyesight.

5. Fruits & Vegetables

All fruits and vegetables are healthy, but those that are vibrantly colored are often more beneficial. Bright green, red, yellow, and orange foods are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Spinach, kale, raspberries, and dark cherries are a few examples. Antioxidants fight oxidative stress, which may help prevent a range of diseases.

For senior care you can trust, reach out to the professionals at Beehive Homes of Kalispell in Montana. Their assisted living facilities offer around-the-clock care. Their attentive staff caters to each person’s individual needs, and they provide delicious, nutritional meals approved by dietitians. With daily housekeeping and activities, they strive to keep residents active and comfortable. Call (406) 871-8667 to learn more about their senior care services, or visit them online for more details.