Eating habits and preferences change throughout a person’s life, and sometimes those changes can affect health. However, for seniors over the age of 60, some essential nutritional details are important to watch. Here are a few suggestions on how to meet these unique dietary needs.

HYDRATION

As you age, you might find you lose your sense of thirst. Therefore, you must hydrate with intention. Consider putting a chart on your refrigerator to track how often and how much you drink. Limit beverages with a lot of sugar and/or caffeine and stick primarily with water.

PROTEIN

Seniors tend to eat less protein than required to prevent the loss of lean muscle mass. However, remember that meats, poultry, and eggs are not the only protein sources. In addition, you can get protein benefits from seafood, dairy, beans, peas, and lentils!

VITAMIN B12

The ability to absorb vitamin B12 can decrease with age and some frequently used medications. B12 deficiency can result in anemia, neuropathy, cognitive impairment, fatigue, and walking difficulties. While your physician can diagnose and direct you in managing treatments like B12 supplements, you can make a dietary adjustment by adding foods like liver, sardines, beef, tuna, salmon, milk and dairy products, and fortified breakfast cereals.

Are you interested in learning more about senior-specific nutrition? MyPlate is a great place to start. For seniors or caregivers interested in learning more about our Home Delivered Meals Program or Senior Center Without Walls (Congregate Meal Program), click here.