While some seniors have surprisingly hearty appetites, it’s more common for individuals to eat less as they age. This can have a negative effect on their health and well-being, particularly if they aren’t getting the protein, vitamins and nutrients they need to thrive.
If your aging loved one has a small appetite, here are three simple meal ideas that pack a big punch. If you have any concerns about their nutrition or health, please speak to their family doctor—they may have personalized advice regarding meals, supplements and other wellness strategies. Thanks for reading and as always, please contact us if you’d like to know more about high quality homecare services in Toronto. The Living Assistance Services care team would be pleased to speak with you.
A homemade smoothie
Smoothies are ideal for seniors who don’t have a big appetite as they can be consumed slowly and casually (for example, while watching a television show or playing a card game). Consider adding protein as well as fresh produce—we like the combination of peanut butter, chocolate milk and banana with a bit of ice. Another great combination is Greek yogurt, almond milk, banana and fresh berries or frozen tropical fruit. You can customize the consistency to reflect your aging loved one’s needs and preferences (some will prefer thick while others like a thinner smoothie). A teaspoon of chia seeds will add protein without dramatically changing the flavour of your drink. We like offering a smoothie as a mid-afternoon or early evening snack—if a senior has a light breakfast and lunch and a small dinner, the smoothie will add necessary vitamins, nutrients and calories.
Greek yogurt parfaits
A yogurt parfait offers a variety of tastes, textures and nutrients in a relatively small serving. Ideal for breakfast, lunch or a snack, you can customize this meal to reflect your loved one’s tastes and dietary needs. We like Greek yogurt or Skyr because it’s high in protein (and delicious). Here are some toppings you may want to add:
- Fresh berries, sliced peaches or diced apples
- Stewed rhubarb
- Chia seeds and/or hemp hearts (they add great crunch as well as protein/nutrients)
- Cashews, almonds or other nuts, if not a choking hazard
- Homemade or low-sugar granola
- Shredded or flaked coconut
- A drizzle of peanut or almond butter
By switching up your toppings, this is a new meal every time you enjoy it. Plus, it’s something that can be prepared ahead of time and left in the fridge for seniors so there’s always a healthy meal or snack option on hand.
A snack plate
Some seniors are overwhelmed by a large plate of food, but will happily snack on a picnic-style variety of items presented on a smaller plate. Consider adding sliced cheese, deli meat or slices of leftover chicken (or another protein), fresh fruit, sliced cucumber and bell peppers, pickles or olives and a generous scoop of hummus. Focus on offering a variety of foods that provide flavour, protein and nutrients. Serve it with a cup of tea or a glass of water, and don’t rush them to finish—instead, let them graze at their own pace.
Contact us to learn more about high quality homecare services in Toronto
If you’d like to know more about reliable, trustworthy homecare services for seniors in Toronto, Mississauga or the surrounding communities, please contact us. A member of the Living Assistance Services care team would be pleased to answer your questions, make personalized recommendations and provide a quote. Thanks for reading, and please share this information with anyone who may find it useful!