Healthy Eating Tips for Seniors During the Holidays

When we think about the holidays, our thoughts are filled with social gatherings where we spend time with loved ones and indulge in delicious, holiday-themed dishes. Although it’s fine to indulge in seasonal dishes from time to time, it is still important for seniors to keep their nutrition and health in check.

As your reliable assisted living facility in Burnsville, Minnesota, we will share healthy eating tips for older adults during the holiday season:

• Practice Mindfulness During Meals
  The holidays are often thought of as a time to honor traditions, including yearly dishes. To avoid getting carried away, seniors should practice mindfulness. A provider of senior care in Minnesota can help them plan healthy meals and snacks, as well as pay attention to how much extra sugar or salt they add to their diet.
• Use Smaller Plates and Portions
  Using smaller plates will encourage seniors to get smaller portions. Whether they are snacking on seasonal treats or a holiday dinner, caregivers can help by using a smaller plate than they’re used to. This will help prevent loading up on bigger servings than necessary to feel full.
• Keep Track of Salt Intake
  Many of our elders lose their sense of taste as they age, which impacts their sensitivity to taste. When this happens, they usually overcompensate by sprinkling extra salt on their selections or opting for high-salt dishes. Care providers should keep track of their salt intake to reduce the risk of illness.

Cardenas Friendship Homes is an assisted living facility specializing in senior care. From memory care to medication administration, we offer several high-quality waivered care services to support healthy aging. Get in touch with us to discuss your loved one’s needs and how our services can help.