If your senior parent is struggling to lose weight as they get older, they’re not alone. As seniors age their metabolism slows down. And many seniors struggle to stay active because of health conditions. Together, the lack of activity and slower metabolism can cause weight gain.

Your senior may also struggle with extra pounds because of the medications that they are taking. Some medications, like steroids, are known to cause weight gain.

If your parent is trying to lose weight, they need to pay more attention to their diet. In-home care is a good way to make sure that your mom or dad is eating healthy meals.

An in-home care provider can make meals and snacks for your parent. They can also portion food into single servings so that your mom or dad doesn’t eat too much. Eating healthy foods and watching portion size can help them lose weight. So can eating healthy foods that are naturally packed with fiber.

Fiber makes people feel full longer, so they will snack less and eat less at meals without feeling hungry. Eating more fiber can also help your parent lower their cholesterol.

Some healthy foods that are full of fiber that your mom or dad should be eating if they want to lose weight are:

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are excellent sources of fiber and protein. There are lots of different varieties of beans to choose from like black beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, and lentils. Beans and lentils are hearty, filling additions to meals. Just one cup of cooked lentils contains about 15 grams of fiber.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread are high in fiber. For example, a cup of cooked quinoa has about 5 grams of fiber, and a slice of whole wheat bread has around 3 grams. Make sure that the bread your mom or dad is eating is whole grain bread, and look for ways to substitute whole grain options like choosing whole grain pasta instead of white flour pasta.

Fruits with Skin

Fruits are a delicious and natural source of fiber. Fruits like apples, pears, and berries are especially high in fiber, but it’s important to eat them with the skin on for maximum benefit. For example, a medium apple with its skin contains about 4 grams of fiber, while a cup of raspberries has 8 grams. If your mom or dad has trouble with tough fruit skin like apple skin puree the fruit so it’s easier to eat.

Vegetables

Vegetables are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Leafy greens like spinach and kale, cruciferous veggies like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, and root vegetables like carrots are all great choices. For instance, a cup of cooked broccoli contains about 5 grams of fiber.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are fiber-rich and provide healthy fats and protein. Options like almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts are excellent choices. Just two tablespoons of chia seeds provide 10 grams of fiber.

If you or an aging loved one needs in-home care in Braselton, GA, call Home Care Matters. We can answer your questions about home care and help you learn more about options for care. Call today (770) 965-4004.

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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