Nutrition in Older Adults
A balanced diet is essential for health and wellbeing at all stages of life. For older adults, achieving their recommended intake of all nutrients is important as this can help provide energy for daily tasks and can help to fight illness.
When someone has a poor appetite and isn’t meeting their nutrition goals, they may be considered malnourished. It is important to try and help them to increase their daily intake of nutrient dense food and fluids. A balanced diet includes items from all the main food groups (starchy carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables, milk and dairy, meat, fish and plant based protein sources, and oils and spreads). This is important for people who are undernourished.
To find out more about malnutrition/undernutrition in older people, please see the below pieces.
Malnutrition in Older people
Malnutrition (undernutrition) can affect anyone, but it is more common for older people. Malnutrition can result in an increased risk of illness and slower recovery, reduced energy and reduction in the ability to perform everyday tasks. It is important to aim to prevent and treat malnutrition. This can be done by increasing the energy (calories) and protein content of meals, snacks and fluids. Some suggestions on how to achieve this in a care home setting can be found below. You will also find a piece written by a nutrition support dietitian on nutrition in older adults using the button below.
PRo-CAL ™ can be added to catering size dishes
Breakfast Ideas
Pro-Cal powder can be added to:
Lunch ideas
Pro-Cal powder can be added to:
Dinner Ideas
Pro-Cal powder can be added to:
Snack / dessert ideas
Add 1-2 shots of Pro-Cal shot neutral to:
FREEZE Pro-Cal shot in ice lolly moulds or ice cube trays. The smoothie mix below can also be frozen!
Drinks ideas
Add 1-2 shots of Pro-Cal shot neutral to:
TOP TIP:
Add Pro-Cal shot starwberry in place of neutral flavour in drinks for a strawberry twist.
Videos
The combination of a balanced diet and movement can contribute to positive affects on both physical and mental health.
In the video below you will find some exercises for adults of all abilities that can be done from the comfort of your own home.
These videos have been developed in conjuction with a registered physiotherapist.
Resources
An easy way to boost the energy and protein content of everyday foods with Pro-Cal powder.
Download Pro-Cal powder Handy Hints