As people get older, the human body’s nutrient absorption rate will decrease, so it becomes increasingly important for aging adults to get the appropriate amount of nutrition to stay healthy. Furthermore, sometimes as people age, they develop certain food preferences that lead them to be picky in choosing the food they eat. Changes like these occur gradually, and may not seem like much. However, over time, it could cause greater problems like health issues and malnutrition. This is why at our senior living community, we ensure that our residents have nutritious and delicious food every day to ensure that they remain healthy and happy. Read on to find out more about how to prevent malnutrition in the elderly!
What Is Malnutrition?
Malnutrition is a condition that occurs when there is a nutritional imbalance, or if the person is not consuming the correct amount of nutrients needed by the body. It is a severe problem, as it can even endanger the health of someone, and result in other complications like organ failure and even death. Fortunately, it is a condition that can be prevented with the right steps.
Develop a Diet Plan
Depending on what kind of health condition an elderly has, one of the most useful things to do in preventing malnutrition is to develop a diet plan that can cater to their nutritional needs. Choose to add healthier food options into this plan, and consult a dietician or nutritionist for advice.
Exercise Regularly
Another important factor is to exercise regularly. Regular physical activity can provide a lot of benefits- they not only keep the body healthy and improve health, but they can also help to increase the appetite. A small appetite is an issue that many elderly face, which can lead to underconsumption of nutrients.
Consume Supplements
If the adult is facing any particular deficiency, dietary supplements can provide the additional nutrients they need to combat the deficiency. There are many different types of supplements available on the market, but it is important to consult a doctor or take a supplement prescribed by a doctor to ensure that it is safe. Generally, doctors prescribe multivitamin supplements as they are rich in different types of vitamins and minerals.
Senior Living Communities
Another option you can consider to prevent malnutrition in the elderly is to choose a senior living community for them. At senior living communities, residents’ meals are provided and they are often rich in nutrients and delicious. This can help to ensure that residents are getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.
If you are on the lookout for a senior living community for yourself or for a loved one, look no further than Conservatory At Alden Bridge. We prioritize our residents and ensure that they are always having the right amount of nutrients in their meals and are always occupied with meaningful activities. Our team of dedicated staff also works hard to ensure that residents are always happy and healthy. Feel free to contact us to find out more about what we have to offer today!
