It is common for older adults to lose weight due to illness or poor appetite. They may not eat as much as they used to, or choose to eat food that contains fewer calories out of health concerns. While losing weight is something most people strive for, being underweight as you grow older is not to be desired as it can increase the risk of nutrition deficiency, leading to brittle bones and a weak immune system. Is your elderly loved one looking to put on some healthy weight? Here are five healthy weight gain tips that they can follow.
Eat Smaller and More Frequent Meals
Some older adults may find it difficult to consume three heavy meals daily. Hence, they can try having smaller but more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help ensure that they are consuming enough nutrients and calories.
Make Food Easier to Eat
Is your loved one struggling to eat due to dentures or missing teeth? Try to make their food easier to chew by grinding them into smaller pieces. You can also use cooking methods such as boiling or steaming to soften food and make them easier to swallow and digest.
Boost Your Loved One’s Appetite
Did you know that exercise is a natural way to increase your appetite? Adults aged 65 and above should aim to engage in light physical activity every day to keep themselves healthy. Examples of light activities include cleaning the house, standing up occasionally, and performing simple chores at home. Staying active is one way to stimulate hunger and boost your loved one’s appetite.
Increase Calorie Content of Food
Garnishing food can make them more palatable and help your loved one gain extra calories. Here’s what you can do:
- Sprinkle cheese flakes onto dishes
- Add milk or dairy alternatives to soup, coffee, or tea
- Marinate fish or vegetables with white sauce
- Add powdered nuts and fresh fruits to drinks and oats
Take Vitamins and Supplements
Taking nutritional supplements on top of your loved ones’ regular meals can be a helpful way to make up for any nutrients missing from their diet. Dietary supplements recommended for older adults include calcium, vitamin D, B6 and B12, which can benefit your loved ones in the following ways:
- Calcium and vitamin D: improves bone density and keeps bones strong
- Vitamin B6: keeps the immune system and nervous system healthy
- Vitamin B12: boosts the production of red blood cells
Healthy and Worry-Free Living in Our Retirement Community
Is your loved one looking to spend their retirement in great comfort and good health? Our Assisted Living community provides a safe, vibrant and conducive environment for senior living. Our team members also organize fun activities that all residents can participate in. In addition, we provide exceptional and professional care services for all residents around the clock while giving them the support they need to live independently. We also offer several apartment floor plans to suit the needs of our residents. Our goal is to enrich your loved ones’ quality of life and maximize their comfort so they can spend their days worry-free in our Assisted Living community. Interested to learn more about Assisted Living in North Richland Hills, TX? Contact us now!
