Nutrition for Older Adults (2024)

FAQs

What are the nutrient recommendations for older adults? ›

Choose foods with little to no added sugar, saturated fats, and sodium. Get enough protein during your day to maintain muscle mass. Focus on the nutrients you need, including potassium, calcium, vitamin D, dietary fiber, and vitamin B12. With age, you may lose some of your sense of thirst.

As our bodies change over time, so do our nutritional needs. Although good nutrition is important at all ages, it becomes even more important as we age. Over time, the metabolic rate slows, appetite can decrease, and the risk for certain diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and diabetes can rise.

Wholegrain cereals, wholemeal bread, fruit, dried fruit, dried peas, beans and lentils are all excellent sources. Make sure you drink enough water to prevent constipation. Remember, most older people need 6–8 cups of fluid each day.

healthy older adults

Eat well by including a variety of healthy foods from each of the four major food groups. 1 Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit. 2 Eat plenty of breads and cereals, preferably wholegrain. 3 Have milk and milk products in your diet, preferably reduced- or low-fat options.

The person may become angry or agitated, or behave in a challenging way during mealtimes. If a person isn't eating enough, it can lead to weight loss and less muscle strength. They may also feel tired and weak. This can make them frailer and less able to recover from infections or viruses.

Calcium Deficiency: Calcium is important for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis. Seniors can address this concern by consuming calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods.

Raw or undercooked eggs, meat and poultry.

Undercooked foods such as eggs, meat, poultry and sushi can cause food poisoning, which can trigger sepsis and septic shock. Although anyone can develop infection and sepsis, seniors are at higher risk.

Fruits and vegetables (think orange, red, green and purple) Whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat pasta) Low-fat dairy (milk and its alternatives)

The MNA^® was developed nearly 20 years ago and is the most well validated nutrition screening tool for the elderly. Originally comprised of 18 questions, the current MNA^® now consists of 6 questions and streamlines the screening process.

What is a healthy lifestyle for older adults? ›

In general, you can support your physical health by staying active, eating and sleeping well, and going to the doctor regularly. Take care of your mental health by interacting with family and friends, trying to stay positive, and participating in activities you enjoy.

Vitamin D deficiency is among the most common vitamin deficiencies as people age due to decreased mobility. Magnesium deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies.

consuming a variety of whole grains, and other nutrient-dense foods. maintaining a diet high in fiber, low in fat, and low in sodium. avoiding caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol to help prevent hot flashes. eating foods rich in calcium, or taking physician-prescribed calcium supplements and vitamin D.

Eat Healthy

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein foods, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products are healthy choices. Eat different types of protein foods in your diet. This can include seafood, lean meats, poultry, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, seeds, soy products, and eggs.

An older adult needs increased supplements of vitamin D due to the ability to synthesize vitamin D on the skin from sunlight decreases with age. Over the age of 50 years, the body needs a higher intake of vitamin D.