One of the greatest challenges faced during the winters is that of eating right so that there is proper flu protection for seniors and prevention of contagious infections like the COVID-19. Sadly, this task becomes increasingly difficult particularly because seniors have diminished appetite, reduced mobility, physical activities, chewing and swallowing difficulties during their golden years. These problems hinder the availability of adequate nutrition to their bodies thereby causing health issues and lowering the quality of life.
A colourful diet for seniors consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain foods, healthy fats omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin D foods, moderate amounts of dairy foods, fish and proteins goes a long way in protecting the health of elders. It remarkably slows down the progression of aging as well. However, most seniors are likely to require some form of external support for fulfilling their diet needs. Athulya Homecare, a well-established provider of home care services in Chennai is known for its dedicated geriatric services in this context. Its comprehensive home nursing care services in Chennai ensure that seniors enjoy healthy and happy retired life in the comfort of their own homes despite the chilly weather.
Importance of Winter Foods for the Elderly
- Fulfils the body’s nutritional needs and effectively combats the common ailments during the cold season
- Helps to maintain healthy eating practices and resist the wrong temptations that can cause severe deficiencies and even malnutrition
- Ensures the elders get the required amounts of vitamins and minerals to boost their immunity and stay fit
- Furnishes the body with nutritional supplements to support other prevailing health conditions including mental disorders like dementia, cardiovascular ailments, chronic pain complaints and mobility issues
- Prevents obesity without compromising on bone health
Guide to Healthy Winter Eating
- Ensure that elders get to eat the four vital food groups thrice a day. That should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, grains, low-fat dairy products and proteins.
- Encourage healthy snacking that incorporates fibrous foods like apples, nuts and bananas. These foods not only provide a good feeling of satiety but also improve the health of the digestive system.
- Avoid high-fat foods that are difficult to digest and make them feel lethargic. Elders must be active despite being confined to the house.
- Seniors should also be well-hydrated even though the surrounding climate may not be hot. It is recommended that they drink at least sixty- four ounces of water a day.
- A diet for strong bones is highly recommended as elders are more prone to falling and skidding in the winter especially if there is snowfall. For that calcium-rich and Vitamin D-laden foods like dairy products including milk, cheese, leafy green vegetables like kale, broccoli and collards, nuts and soya beans may be consumed.
- Since elders are prone to vision problems in old age, taking healthy foods for eyes and sight is very crucial. Vitamin A foods are very beneficial in reducing age-related visual degeneration. They also enhance immunity, bone density and reduce the risk of some types of cancers. Examples of these foods are cod liver oil, carrot, sweet potato, spinach and black-eyed peas are ideal.
- Taking warm soups and stews can help in fighting the chilly winters. These low-calorie foods made from vegetables and lentils can supply vitamins and proteins too.
- Include a smoothie in your daily menu as they act as good sources of fibre and antioxidants. A smoothie made from a combination of bananas, berries, avocados and peanut butter is certainly worth trying!
- Make sure that you include seasonal foods in your platter every day as these fresh local items are usually available easily and best furnish the essential nutrients.
- Foods to avoid in winter include processed items that are rich in sodium, sugar and high-fat content like fried foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Name some immunity-boosting foods for winter.
Foods enriched with Vitamin C play a substantial role in immunity as they prevent common colds and infections. Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and grapes are good sources of this. Vitamin B6 is another beneficial food for enhancing immunity. Oats, bananas and peanuts furnish Vitamin B6.
- Suggest natural foods to combat inflammation in winter.
Antioxidant foods like berries and beetroots resist cellular damage and prevent inflammation.
- How do homecare services assist elders in healthy eating during winters?
Homecare services provide nutrition and dieting assistance to elders so that their diet is specifically customized to meet their nutritional and health needs. They also assist in meal planning, preparation and feeding.
Thus, healthy nutritious eating with balanced diets makes winters blissful for elders!
