Diet and Nutrition
This is a particularly challenging topic. Seniors are often on restricted diets. Many have developed sensitivities to foods or they might have allergies or dietary restrictions due to religious beliefs. They may have physical problems, which make eating a challenge. Many seniors have a problem chewing food due to missing teeth or dentures.
Some are at risk of aspiration because of swallowing difficulties. Over time some foods become more difficult to digest and thus, there are more frequent bouts with constipation or diarrhea.
Then there is the challenge of loss of appetite. As we age, our taste buds lose their sensitivity and as a result, many seniors lose their appetite. Food just doesn’t taste good. Have you ever noticed that most seniors relish carbohydrates, sugar and salt? There’s a reason for this. Foods rich in sugar or salt have more flavor and they get instant satisfaction. The fact of the matter is that seniors, for the most part, don’t really care what’s good for them. They eat to stay alive and they want what they want. Of course, you have to control this in some way, but The Care Company also believes that quality of life is important. You cannot be the food police all the time at every meal.
Negotiation usually works well. Offer a choice of foods. Let the senior decide. Does it really matter what one eats for breakfast or dinner? Your concern is nutrition. You can puree fruit into a smoothie, but it doesn’t matter if it’s at breakfast or dinner. When a senior’s health is declining, we are more concerned about moments of grace, dignity and happiness than whether or not all nutrients are eaten on a daily basis. (This is just our personal feeling after dealing with this subject for years.) Try to avoid having arguments over food. Be flexible and work together for the greater good of the senior in question.
In the Empowered Caregiver Manual we have created forms, which help identify a senior’s food preferences, allergies and forbidden foods. It’s a great resource for outside caregivers who might be cooking or shopping in your absence. It serves as an informational guideline.
