March is National Nutrition Month, and the loved ones of seniors either at home or in skilled nursing settings and memory care should take the time to note changing nutrition needs for the elderly.
As we age, our bodies begin to need different levels and kinds of nutrition. Without a proper diet in old age, our bodies can deteriorate faster, cognitive health can decline, and we can become more prone to diseases, such as osteoporosis.
At Haven Health, we strive to ensure all of our senior nutrition programs are not just adequate, but are healthy, delicious, and prepared and selected specifically for the elderly. Our nutritionists and support staff play a large role in our organization, and today, we’d like to share with you some important health tips concerning nutrition.
If you or a loved one is in need of skilled nursing services with the best food in Arizona, think Haven Health.
How Do Nutritional Needs Change As People Age?
As we ease into our senior years, our nutritional needs change from when we are young. One of the biggest changes is the number of calories we need to stay healthy. In general, younger people need more calories than the elderly.
On the contrary, many elderly people don’t get enough food, due to challenges with appetite, tastes changing, mobility issues, and more. Vitamins and minerals may not be absorbed as well. Additionally, medical conditions may impact digestion, and medications may affect eating and nutrition habits.
Because of these changes, older people often need meals that are more nutrient dense, while carrying fewer calories than other meals. They may also need meals that provide more vitamins than usual, including higher amounts of specific vitamins, such as calcium.
Proper, nutrient dense nutrition can help seniors maintain muscle mass, which helps maintain mobility and balance, keeps the immune system strong, and much more.
What Nutrients Are Most Important For Seniors?
There are many nutrients that seniors need to be aware of. The chief among them is calcium, as it helps keep bones healthy and strong to protect them from falls. Vitamin D is also essential for these same reasons.
Protein intake is important as well. Protein helps maintain muscle mass in the elderly, which aids in mobility and strength. Elderly patients are prone to muscle atrophy, but this can be combatted with proper diet, nutrition, and exercise.
The elderly should, additionally, be aware of B-12 intake. B-12 is a vitamin that helps the body absorb nutrients from food and is likely the most common vitamin deficiency in the elderly worldwide. Its deficiency can cause “frailty,” and care should be taken to keep within healthy levels.
Proper hydration is also essential. The elderly process water and fluids in a less efficient manner than younger people and have a reduced thirst sensation, as well as other issues that affect hydration. Additional assurance that hydration goals are being met in the elderly must be taken.
In general, a balanced diet containing whole foods, as well as nutritional supplements, can help elderly patients in skilled nursing settings heal in the most efficient way possible and help long-term patients maintain quality of life.
What Are Some Signs A Senior May Not Be Eating Properly And How Can Families Encourage Better Nutrition For Aging Loved Ones?
While some weight loss associated with aging may be acceptable, severe weight loss, fatigue, frailty, and brittle bones may all be warning signs that a senior you love may not be getting adequate nutrition.
These changes may be due to a loss of appetite associated with aging, physical difficulty with eating, such as trouble chewing and swallowing, mobility and food preparation issues, or issues with nutrient absorption, due to medication or drug interactions.
One of the best ways to ensure the elderly are eating properly is by sharing meals. Preparing meals for elderly loved ones is also a good idea. Communication with your loved one’s healthcare team about nutrition is essential, and they will be able to tell you more about their unique dietary needs.
If your loved one is having difficulty feeding themselves due to injuries, long-term illnesses, or memory issues, Haven Health can help support them with nutrition and many other needs.
How Does Haven Health Support Resident Nutrition During National Nutrition Month?
At Haven Health, supporting residents’ nutrition needs is at the heart of providing the kind of compassionate, professional care we are known for. If you or your loved one needs nutrition help, contact Haven Health today.
Sources:
Calcium in Diet. (2026).
Li, S., et al. (2023). Hydration Status in Older Adults: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges.
Pyrgioti, E., et al. (2022). B12 Levels and Frailty Syndrome.