Ensuring good nutrition and hydration is vital for the health and well-being of older adults. At Live In Solutions, we know that changes in appetite, chewing or swallowing can make mealtimes challenging. This guide offers practical strategies to help carers support balanced diets, prevent malnutrition, and keep loved ones thriving at home.
Why Nutrition Matters
Proper nutrition helps maintain immunity, supports recovery from illness and preserves energy levels. Malnutrition in older adults can lead to weakened muscles, slower healing, and reduced quality of life. As a care partner, your role in creating enjoyable, nourishing meals is key.
Common Causes of Poor Intake
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, heart disease or medication side-effects can suppress appetite or nutrient absorption.
- Dental or Swallowing Issues: Poor dentition or neurological disorders may make eating painful or unsafe.
- Loss of Taste and Smell: Age-related changes can blunt flavours, reducing interest in food.
- Low Mood or Isolation: Depression and loneliness often lead to skipped meals.
Using the Eatwell Guide
The Government’s Eatwell Guide recommends a balanced plate:
- Fruits & Vegetables: Aim for five portions daily, favouring a rainbow of colours.
- Starchy Foods: Choose wholegrains—brown rice, wholewheat pasta and potatoes with skin—for fibre.
- Protein: Include lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, and nuts. Oily fish twice weekly adds healthy fats.
- Dairy or Alternatives: Milk, yoghurt, and cheese—or fortified plant-based milks—for calcium and vitamin D.
- Oils & Spreads: Use small amounts of unsaturated oils, such as olive or rapeseed.
* Limit high-sugar, high-salt and high-fat treats.
Budget-Friendly Healthy Eating
- Plan Ahead: Create weekly menus and shop with a list.
- Cook in Batches: Freeze portions to save time and money.
- Own-Brand Choices: Store labels often match the quality of premium brands.
- Bulk & Bargains: Buy tinned or frozen fruit and veg, and look for reduced-price deals.
Hydration Tips
Older adults often feel less thirsty yet need more fluids to prevent confusion, constipation, and urinary infections:
- Offer Regular Drinks: Water, herbal teas, or diluted fruit juice throughout the day.
- Hydrating Foods: Soups, stewed fruits, smoothies, and water-rich produce (cucumber, melon).
- Jelly Drops Partnership: Our carers use Jelly Drops—flavoured, jelly-style hydration aids—to boost fluid intake safely.
- Avoid Over-Filling: Space drinks around meals to maintain appetite.
Overcoming Mealtime Challenges
Chewing and Swallowing Difficulties
- Serve soft, bite-sized foods: mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, or tender stews.
- Puree meals when necessary, using thickened liquids to ease swallowing.
Confusion or Anxiety at Mealtimes
- Keep the table clutter-free and offer two meal choices only.
- Use smaller plates and familiar utensils.
- Share meals to create a social, relaxing atmosphere.
Loss of Appetite or Taste
- Enhance flavour with herbs, citrus juices, and mild spices instead of salt.
- Present colourful meals and varied textures to entice interest.
- Offer five to six small snacks or mini-meals rather than three large ones.
How Live In Solutions Supports Nutrition
Our live-in carers deliver tailored support:
- Meal Planning & Prep: Nutritious, appetising dishes made from scratch.
- Hydration Monitoring: Regular fluid checks and encouragement.
- Specialist Advice: Collaboration with dietitians for complex needs.
- Encouragement & Companionship: Making mealtimes a positive, shared experience.