Seniors who are living on their own may find it tough to manage their weight as they get older because shopping, cooking, and doing physical activities can be harder for them. Your senior parent may be hesitant to try cooking meals because they are afraid of cutting themselves, dropping things, or falling. Elder care can help your parent make delicious, healthy, and nutritious meals by providing the extra support they need. When your senior has an elder care provider with them to help them shop, cook, and clean up after meals, they are more likely to eat healthy and have an easier time managing their weight. Elder care providers can help your senior parent by:
Planning and Preparing Healthy Meals
Eating well is one of the most important steps in maintaining a healthy weight. A care provider can work with your parent to plan meals that are both tasty and nutritious. They can help choose lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Caregivers can also do the cooking, making sure meals are not too high in sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats. By making healthy food the easy choice, your parent is more likely to stay on track.
Trying New Healthy Foods
Sometimes seniors stick to the same meals over and over, which can get boring or lead to poor nutrition. A care provider can gently encourage your parent to try new healthy foods. They might introduce new fruits, vegetables, or healthier versions of favorite dishes.
This keeps meals interesting and gives your parent more nutrients that support a healthy weight. A new recipe or flavor can also make mealtime something to look forward to.
Prepare Healthy Snacks in Advance
Smart snacking can help seniors avoid overeating at meals and keep their blood sugar steady. A caregiver can prep and pack snacks like sliced apples, carrot sticks, yogurt, or a handful of nuts. These can be stored in the fridge or on the counter, ready whenever your parent gets hungry. Having healthy snacks within easy reach makes it less likely they’ll grab chips or cookies instead.
Support Safe Physical Activity
Exercise is key to weight management, but not all seniors can go for walks or do intense workouts. That doesn’t mean your senior parent can’t do any exercise. There are still safe ways to stay active. A caregiver can encourage your parent to do chair exercises, stretch, or move their arms and legs while watching TV. Even a little bit of movement each day can make a difference. Elder care can also help with balance and make sure the activity is safe and fun.
Keep a Healthy Routine
Managing weight is easier when your senior parent has a consistent healthy routine. A care provider can help your parent eat at regular times, take walks if possible, and drink plenty of water. They can also help keep a small food journal if needed, or gently remind your parent of their goals.
If you or an aging loved one could benefit from elder care in Johns Creek, 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.
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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