A lack of sufficient nutrients can affect seniors physically and mentally in many ways and increase the risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes later in life. One way to help a senior loved one enjoy the many benefits of healthy eating is to plan or suggest meals that provide an appropriate nutritional balance. While this advice applies to all meals, today we’re going to focus on six great lunch options for the elderly.
1. Stuffed Green Peppers
Aside from being filling enough to discourage unhealthy snacking before dinner, stuffed green peppers can be loaded with an abundance of flavor and nutrients. Whether oven-cooked or slow-cooked, this lunchtime treat can include ingredients like onions, which are loaded with cell-protecting antioxidants. Green peppers alone are a great source of fiber as well as vitamins C and E.
2. A Veggie-Packed Omelet
If your senior loved one normally goes light on breakfast, suggest a hearty omelet for lunch that includes an assortment of veggies for flavor and extra nutrition. If cheese is preferred, try cheddar, since it’s an excellent source of protein and calcium—two good things for aging muscles and bones. Also, the vitamin K in cheddar cheese is beneficial for heart and bone health.
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of encouragement when your loved one is trying to practice healthier habits, including eating more nutritious foods. Homecare agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
3. Soup
Regardless of the season, soup can be a filling and delicious lunch option for a senior. Healthy versions of lunchtime favorites can include diced chicken, butternut squash, pumpkin, and other nutrient-rich ingredients. If your loved one prefers something spicy, Thai chicken soup can be peppered with lemongrass and ginger, which has known anti-inflammatory properties. For something on the milder side, creamy chicken veggie soup can be just as delicious and nutritious.
4. A Grilled Salmon Sandwich
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can potentially lower blood pressure, slow the development of plaques in arteries, and minimize the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Made similar to a grilled cheese sandwich, a grilled salmon sandwich can become even healthier with finishing touches that include red bell peppers, red onions, romaine lettuce, or a slice or two of tomato.
A professional caregiver can be a terrific source of support for a senior who needs a hand with planning and preparing nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care. Boca Raton Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
5. Mac & Cheese
While this is the ultimate comfort food, with the right variations, it can also be a tasty and healthy lunchtime treat for a senior. There are many options, but focus on recipes with nutrient-rich additions such as garlic powder and ground black pepper. Milk can provide added calcium for better bone health, and mustard, which may ease symptoms related to rheumatoid arthritis, can provide added flavor.
6. Pizza
When prepared right, pizza can be turned into a mouth-watering and nutritious lunchtime meal. A manageable variation of pizza can even be made with a wheat English muffin, pizza sauce, and healthy toppings like green peppers, garlic, and spinach. Many veggies and spices that can be used for pizza toppings have natural inflammation-fighting properties and an abundance of vitamins and minerals that can be good for aging bodies and brains.
Family caregivers need to maintain healthy lifestyles too, which involves taking time to attend to their own wellbeing. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs 24-hour care, Boca Raton, FL, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (561) 826.9282 today.
