50+ Lifestyles

Nutrition Tips for Older Adults

By Mike Mathews
Milestones Area Agency on Aging

March 1 marks the beginning of National Nutrition Month, an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. Most Americans will admit they can make better decisions when it comes to their eating habits. For older Americans, however, these decisions become increasingly important.

Lynda Murray, Registered Dietitian with Milestones AAA, stresses the value of proper nutrition in aging adults.  “It’s as important as wind to a kite,” said Murray. Good nutrition is critical to body health, brain health and a zest for living. Poor nutrition often flies under the radar but can reveal itself in subtle ways: crankiness, anxiety, sleep disorders, joint pain, hair loss, itchy skin, brittle nails and depression.”

While Murray does not understate the importance of proper nutrition for aging adults, many seniors find it can be very challenging to maintain the right diet.  Murray offers encouragement.

“First off, be gentle on yourselves,” said Murray.  “You have had a significant number of birthdays because you are doing some things right. Give yourself a pat on the back.”

But what about those cravings that can make healthy eating difficult for so many?

“Research shows you start to crave what you fuel yourself with. It changes the microbiome (bacteria in your gut linked with weight control, mood, chronic disease) Want to crave broccoli? Start eating more broccoli! Want to crave salads?  Start eating more salads.  It really is that simple.”

With all of this in mind, it is important to recognize that not all nutrition issues are solely based on decision making. 88-year-old James from Iowa shared his struggle.

“Finding foods in the grocery store is a challenge,” said James.  “I don’t see as good as I used to. I get dizzy and can’t stand for long periods of time. I have to get in and get out.”

And when it comes to finding the right nutritious foods, the task can be even more difficult.

“Preparing healthful foods can be a struggle at times,” said James. “The tiny print on the food labels isn’t helpful. My wife was a great cook. I can grill and microwave but aside from that I seem to lack the interest and the know-how.”

James is not alone.  According to the Administration for Community Living, it is estimated that 50% of older Americans lack proper nutrition. While there are many contributing factors, some older Americans simply do not have access to the proper foods.  If you or someone you know falls into this category, there are community resources to help bridge the gap to proper nutrition. Social services agencies including Milestones in Iowa and Project Now in Illinois, provide home meal delivery to homebound seniors. There are also several food pantries located throughout the Quad Cities area.

As for older adults who have the resources but lack the knowledge for proper nutrition, programs such as Milestones “Fresh Conversations” can provide an interactive approach to a better diet.

As you age, having a healthy and balanced diet will help you look and feel your best while helping prevent many serious health issues. If you are interested in joining the Milestones Home Meal Delivery Program or Fresh Conversations, please call 855-410-6222.

Information, Referral & Assistance services are available by calling Milestones at (855) 410-6222.