As seniors age, they may not eat as often or as healthy as they once had. Sometimes, they can even forget to eat and skip important meals and miss the nutrition they may need. However, proper nutrition is especially important since research indicates that ⅔ of those over 65 in the U.S. have a poor diet which affects their health. Poor diet is a major risk factor in chronic diseases, disability and death.
One of the benefits of Oceanside memory care services is that they can assist your family members in nutritional meals and monitoring any special needs they may have. Heritage Hills, a senior memory care community, offers beautifully designed gathering spaces, dining rooms, courtyards and balconies, created with the single-minded purpose of providing a safe and vibrant living space that feels like a comfortable home. We care about your health!
The Best Heart Healthy Foods
#1) Fish
Fish, such as salmon or tuna, contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These fight against cardiovascular disease. There are many ways to bake fish in the oven in healthy ways that are very appetizing. Government dietary guidelines recommend eating fish twice a week for full benefit of the omega-3 fatty acids for both your heart and brain.
#2) Chicken or Turkey
Chicken and turkey are known as lean meats, and skinless chicken and turkey with fresh herbs and spices are staples of low-sodium meals for seniors. Removing the skin and avoiding adding salt makes the meals healthy, even if high blood pressure is a concern.
#3) Eggs
Even though eggs are high in cholesterol, they are nutritious and good for the heart when prepared properly and consumed in moderation. It helps to avoid fried eggs and if high cholesterol is a major problem, enjoy this protein without the yolk, which is where nearly all of the cholesterol is found.
#4) Berries
Berries are filled with nutritious antioxidants, fibers, vitamins and delicious juices. Whether you enjoy blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, or cranberries, berries can be part of your diet in meal preparation, especially on salads and low-fat yogurts, or just as a delightful snack.
#5) Other Fruit
Fresh fruits can bring much enjoyment and nutrition to eating. Pears and peaches are both highly nutritious and can promote heart health, as well as promote good digestion and anti-inflammation. Vitamin C can also help to improve your immune system.
Fresh apples and oranges are healthy foods with high fiber and potassium in oranges and polyphenols in apples. Dried fruits are less healthy, as the process removes many of the healthy benefits, but they can make good snacks.
#6) Nuts
Almonds: Filled with unsaturated fats, almonds are a healthy nut that can be enjoyed without heavy salt and sugar, which can lead to heart health challenges. This nut is a good snack for lowering bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
Cashews: The cashew has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol ratings for some with type 2 diabetes. You will want to choose unsalted or low-sodium cashews for heart-health benefits.
Walnuts: Like fish, walnuts are filled with omega-3 fats and are a good choice to prevent heart problems. They are also an excellent source of fiber.
#7) Carrots
Carrots are filled with heart-healthy qualities. They can be added to many dishes or eaten themselves as a snack. Carrots reduce bad cholesterol which can lead to heart disease, and they are a good food for weight loss.
#8) Leafy Greens
The most nutritious types of leafy green vegetables are usually dark greens. Spinach, salad greens, fresh lettuce, kale, and many other types of leafy greens boost vitamins and vital nutrients to promote heart health. Leafy greens are a great foundation for senior meals, especially when considering high blood pressure or a high risk of cardiovascular disease.
#9) Whole Grains
Including whole grains in senior diets helps reduce heart concerns, including the effects of type 2 diabetes. Whole grains include brown rice, bran, oatmeal and many other varieties. These can easily be included as side dishes along with meals for residents.
#10) Reduced-Fat Milk or Cheese
Most dairy products should be consumed in low quantities even when in reduced-fat options since they still contain unhealthy fats. However, consuming in moderation (considered two or three small servings a day) can provide heart healthy benefits like calcium intake.
It helps not to completely avoid food items enjoyed in the past like milk and cheese. Many delicious kinds of cheeses are prepared in reduced-fat options which limits the trans and saturated fats often found in cheeses. Since it is important that older adults continue to eat regular meals, one way to ensure this is to have meals they will enjoy.
Nutrition at Oceanside Memory Care Services
We know finding the right place for your loved one can be daunting, and their nutrition may be one of the major concerns you have when looking for the right residential home. At Heritage Hills, we serve three delicious gourmet meals daily in a restaurant style setting along with periodic snacks.
In addition, for those who need extra assistance during mealtime, Heritage Hills has a designated private dining room. This ensures the privacy of each individual and helps maintain their dignity. Additional staff members remain on hand during meal times to help as residents need them.
All menus at Heritage Hills Memory Care are developed by a registered dietician to deliver the highest quality and comply with the nutritional requirements of each resident. We provide a wide variety of healthy, filling meals for our residents, making certain to meet any individual health needs of each individual. We know and care about our residents.
Make Heritage Hills Your Home!
If you are searching for the right Oceanside memory care services for your loved ones, you should consider finding out all we have to offer at Heritage Hills Memory Care. Our nurses and personal caregivers understand that trust is built through consistency and compassion, the touch of a hand, a look in the eye, a smile. They make it a point to know each resident personally — their history, their likes and dislikes, and their specific memory-related needs.
Our specialty is memory care. Extensively trained in supporting those with memory loss, our caregivers feel the joy that comes from making life better for others. They stand at-the-ready to provide compassionate assistance and support 24-hours a day.
Come schedule a tour and see for yourself. We’d love to show you our home!
