As your loved ones age you may find they need a little extra care and you, as the caregiver, might not be able to provide it. That’s ok, and that’s why personal care centers are a great choice for folks who need that little extra day-to-day.
Personal care centers help residents be productive, healthy, and happy through assistance with daily activities by trained professionals. This can include bathing, monitoring medications, and ensuring proper nutrition is provided.
As we grow older nutrition becomes an even more vital part of our well-being. Personal care centers are there to ensure residents are getting the nutrients they need with each meal to make them feel their best.
Mealtimes can also become fun for residents. Cooking can be interactive or themed, making eating an experience.
These are some of the best meals folks living in personal care centers would not only enjoy, but find great value in for a variety of reasons.
1. A protein-packed breakfast
Protein is important any time of day, but never more so than right at the start of it.
Nuts and seeds are often suggested with this meal, but it’s hard for some seniors to digest that. Look to substitute in avocado to get the same effect.
Some good breakfasts include hard boiled eggs and oatmeal with berries.
2. Vegetable-forward dishes
Loading up on leafy greens and other vegetables is a great way to get an array of nutrients in the diet.
Be sure to steam or saute vegetables to make for easier chewing.
3. Locally-sourced dishes
The freshest ingredients are the best, so why not look for them right in your own back yard?
4. Small plates
While it may be tempted to cook typical portions, some seniors may need smaller plate that feel more manageable. Always offer a downsized version of entress.
5. Home-cooked meals
You can always offer seniors a chance to get into the kitchen and show off their skills, making the meal interactive and meaningful.
6. Comfort food
You can modify dishes like meatloaf and macaroni and cheese to make them more nutritionally beneficial.
7. The use of healthy oils
When sauteing vegetables be sure you’re using the right kind of oil, such as avocado or extra virgin. Stay away from canola oil, which has been linked to decreased cognitive function.
8. Something international
You want to introduce variety into the meals served, and one of the best ways to do that is to look to other countries for inspiration.
9. Complete and easy meals
Something like a tuna casserole provides whole grains through pasta, omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy heart with the tuna, and can have additions like broccoli and peas for added antioxidants and nutrients.
10. Something that gets their input
It might be a good idea to do a tasting meal that introduces several new items so you can receive feedback on favorites.
This helps keep the senior involved in the process and makes them feel like they have some agency over what they eat, even if someone else is cooking it.
