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Three BIG Questions: Dena Brayson & Thomas Pietroski

Three BIG Questions: Dena Brayson & Thomas Pietroski    Tuna-Salad-Sandwiches.jpg

Continuing to eat healthy as we age

By Debbie Gardner
debbieg@thereminder.com

Eating healthy is a challenge at any stage of life – and one that can become more difficult as aging affects taste, smell, mobility and other factors that make meals enjoyable.

With that in mind Prime reached out to the experts at Loomis Communities to identify the obstacles to healthy eating elders may face, and advice on ways to overcome these challenges. Here’s what Registered Dietitian Dena Brayson from Sodexo, a partner of The Loomis Communities, and Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing General Manager of Food Service Thomas Pietroski had to say:

Q: What are some of the issues people might encounter in maintaining good nutrition as they age?

“Some of the issues people might encounter as they age include poor/lack of dentition/difficulty chewing and swallowing, and diminished smell and taste. Changes in hormone levels can impact appetite and how quickly they feel full. Lack of independence/mobility and limited finances can create difficulties in obtaining and preparing food. Depression, loneliness, and social isolation can make food less appealing and lead to a decreased food and fluid intake. Chronic medical conditions and medications can also have a negative impact on appetite, nutrient absorption, and smell and taste perception.”

Q: What clues might friends or family pick up on that an elder is facing challenges with maintaining a healthy diet?

“Some signs of improper diet may include visible weight loss/poor fitting clothing and dentures, sunken eyes, irritability, hair loss, paleness, brittle nails, and lack of energy and fatigue. Family and friends may notice that food is piling up in the fridge or there may be an unusual amount of outdated or spoiled food in the fridge. Withdrawal from social gatherings and disinterest in food are other signs.”

Q: Are there any culinary tips and tricks that can help make meals more appealing to an aging palate?

“Try to create a dining experience that combines eating and socialization.

“Small meals throughout the day may be more appealing than the traditional three meals. Here are some suggestions for smaller meals:

  • Greek yogurt with berries,
  • tuna salad dressed in olive oil,
  • fresh fruit,
  • whole grain sandwich,
  • omelet with fresh vegetables,
  • grilled chicken with a baked sweet potato and fresh vegetables
  • salads with olive oil and vinegar.

“Add different fruits such as clementine, kiwi, berries, dates, figs, apples, peaches, mangoes and melons to meals.

“Snacking on fruit and unsalted roasted nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds can provide nutrition on the go.

“Avoid empty calorie food like chips, candy, breakfast or snack bars, sweetened applesauce, French fries, soda and juice drinks.

“In short, natural foods score high in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, (the good) carbohydrates, water, fiber, fatty acids, and they taste much better than processed foods.

“It’s also important to avoid tough meat, nuts, and raw fruits and vegetables if the elder you are concerned about has any chewing and/or swallowing problems. Meat and other items that need to be cut can also pose a problem for those elders who – because of illness or the effects of advanced dementia – are unable to use cutlery or eating utensils effectively.”