Overview
As you age, your body does go through changes that also change the way you eat. Your metabolism slows down, so your activity levels also slow down. You don’t need as many calories as you previously did, so your appetite decreases. Medication side effects can also lead to a lack of appetite, making food seem unappealing. Plus, many seniors have oral issues, with dentures or trouble swallowing that can make eating difficult. However, it’s still important to get three healthy meals each day to ensure optimal health and ward off malnutrition.
Why Social Eating = Healthy Eating for Seniors
Eating together promotes healthy eating for seniors, especially for those living alone. This is because we naturally eat more around others and make better food choices. Often, seniors feel like cooking a big, healthy meal just for one is too difficult and pointless, so they turn to pre-packaged or frozen foods. Or, worse, they skip meals altogether. Another study revealed that one in five seniors report that they feel loneliest when eating by themselves. Their friends or family live too far away to join them for meals, or perhaps they can no longer drive to go enjoy a dinner out with others. When mealtimes are shared with others, they will last as much as twice as long as when a senior eats alone. Plus, an overwhelming majority of the seniors in this study, around 85 percent, say having someone to share their meals with makes mealtimes more satisfying. While the taste and nutritional value of the food itself is important, seniors report that sharing stimulating conversation during the meal is almost equally as important.
Senior living communities recognize the importance of eating together, and many offer restaurant-style dining with a variety of well-balanced, healthy meals to residents. These residents who eat together are provided a chance to talk about the events of the day, bringing back memories of eating with their families. Often, new friendships are made and relationships with others grow while sitting around the table together.
How to make meals more social
1. Eat with your parent at least one meal a day, or by video call if you live apart. 2. Cook a family dish together and let your parent choose the menu once a week. 3. Invite a neighbour or friend for tea or lunch. 4. Join a community meal, a senior club, a temple or a day care centre. 5. Set the table even for one: a plate, a chair, a pleasant corner. 6. Make meals easy: soft food for dentures, small portions and nutritious snacks; see dental health and eating and swallowing difficulties and meal aids.
Watch for malnutrition
Signs include unplanned weight loss, loose clothes, weakness, poor wound healing and low mood. Weigh your parent monthly and report loss to the doctor; see malnutrition in older adults and Indian meals for high-protein seniors.
If your parent eats alone
Loneliness at mealtimes is common; see loneliness and isolation in older adults. A call during a meal or a shared tiffin can help.
When to ask a professional
Ask a doctor or dietician about weight loss, poor appetite, diabetes, kidney disease or any special diet.
Equipment mentioned in this guide
Frequently asked questions
Why do seniors eat less when alone?
Cooking for one feels pointless, appetite is lower and mealtimes can be lonely.
How can I help a parent who skips meals?
Share meals, plan simple dishes, arrange tiffin or help at home and check for health causes.
Are supplements a substitute for meals?
No. Use them only if a doctor or dietician advises.
What is a good protein source for vegetarians?
Dal, pulses, curd, paneer, milk, nuts and soy, adjusted to health conditions.
Sources and further reading
- World Health Organization, Healthy diet fact sheet
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, dietary guidance
- Indian Council of Medical Research and National Institute of Nutrition, Dietary Guidelines for Indians
Tags: Nutrition #Seniors #Health Benefitsshared mealsmalnutritionlonelinesssenior nutritionGut health and nutritionProtein powder for older adultsMultivitamin and mineral tablets for seniorsHealthy ageingElder care
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Speak to your doctor before changing your exercise, diet or medicines.
