Good nutrition means a person is getting the appropriate amount of calories, vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients like fat and protein. However, poor nutrition is somewhat common among older adults, and it can lead to the following health conditions.
1. Osteoporosis
This condition occurs when the body removes old bone material quicker than it can replace new material, and it’s caused by a lack of calcium. Make sure your aging loved one gets plenty of calcium through dairy products, nuts, and fortified grains. Seniors also need vitamin D to properly absorb the calcium. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elder care.
2. Diabetes
This is one of the most serious health conditions affecting seniors because modern diets tend to cause excessively high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can lead to many issues, including infections, vision loss, and limb loss. To keep diabetes at bay, seniors should remove processed sugars from their diets and eat more natural fibers.
3. Depression
Not all health conditions caused by poor nutrition are physical. Poor nutrition can make seniors susceptible to depression. Eating foods that contain B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin D can keep the brain functioning correctly. These nutrients are typically found in fatty fish, seeds, nuts, eggs, legumes, and whole grains.
4. Tooth Decay
Tooth decay typically occurs if a senior isn’t eating enough calcium and consuming too many sugary foods and acidic beverages. One of the best ways to prevent tooth decay is to increase calcium intake while cutting back on soda and juice.
5. Heart Disease
Poor nutrition can lead to an increase in cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and risk factors for heart disease. To prevent this issue, seniors need to reduce their trans fat and sodium intake because high sodium and saturated fats lead to high blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty acids and folate keep the heart working properly, so make sure your loved one eats more legumes and fatty fish. The risk of heart disease can also increase if your loved one doesn’t eat enough fiber, but consuming plenty of whole grains, legumes, and fresh fruits and vegetables can provide the fiber needed to remain healthy. Seniors may need help from their family members when planning nutritious meals. Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on.
6. Gout
Gout is a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, and it leads to painful swelling that prevents movement. To stop gout before it causes permanent damage, seniors must pay attention to their nutrition. Consuming red meat, whole milk, oysters, ice cream, butter, and poultry in excessive levels can lead to gout.
If your loved one needs encouragement to eat healthier foods or focus on other lifestyle factors, consider hiring a professional caregiver.
Adapted from: Assisting Hands
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