Is Your Elderly Loved One Getting the Nutrients He or She Needs?

As we age, we need a different balance of nutrients to remain healthy and combat aging. With March known as National Nutrition Month, now is the perfect time to discuss the nutrients older adults need to maintain their health.

Our team of in-home care providers at Qualicare Big Sky wants to offer some tips on how to ensure your loved one gets the nutrients he or she needs to stay in optimal health.

Nutrients Older Adults Need

Let’s take a look at nutrients your loved one should be getting at most meals:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

While omega-3 fatty acids are important for all ages, they are especially important for older adults since they help prevent inflammation that can cause a number of medical conditions, including:

• Cancer
• Arthritis
• Heart disease
• Macular degeneration
• Alzheimers disease 

Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include: 

• Soybeans
• Sardines
• Canola oil
• Tuna
• Mackerel
• Walnuts
• Salmon
• Flaxseed

Calcium

Do you remember those Got Milk? commercials? Well, those commercials should be playing, especially for the elderly population. 

As we age, our bones age. Weak, frail bones can increase our risk of falling, as well as our chances of suffering from osteoporosis.

Therefore, it is important for our aging loved ones to get a good intake of calcium on a daily basis to improve their bone health.

Good sources of calcium includes:

• Milk
• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Leafy green vegetables 
• Cereals fortified with calcium

Be sure to pair calcium with vitamin D. Why vitamin D? Because it’s necessary to help the body properly absorb calcium.

Are you looking for quality in-home care for your loved one? Contact the in-home care providers at Qualicare Big Sky today to learn how we can help your family!