Belmont Village Quarterly Newsletter
on Senior Living
Dining & Diet:
Essentials for Eating Well
 Healthy eating is important at every phase of life, but maintaining an appropriate diet and good eating habits becomes even more essential as we age and our needs change. In addition to addressing changing energy needs, the proper diet can help combat a number of diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and even arthritis. Studies have shown that food choices can either increase or decrease the inflammation that is often directly responsible for joint pain and tissue damage.
For example, refined, processed, and manufactured foods that contain harmful omega-6 fatty acids, carbohydrates and additives, such as refined soybean oil and high-fructose corn syrup, have been shown to favor the production of inflammation-producing substances in the body.
On the other hand, the anti-oxidants found in extra-virgin olive oil, certain fruits and vegetables, and the omega-3 fatty acids that come from oily fish, such as salmon and sardines, are good for your joints and your heart.
Proper hydration is also of special concern. Eight cups of fluid per day, in addition to any alcohol or caffeine-containing beverages, are recommended.
Nancy Graves, associate professor at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management, University of Houston, is a research partner for Belmont Village, helping to develop and continually refine the company’s industry-leading food service program.
“We carefully balance the preferences of residents with their dietary needs to make sure that we provide a variety of appealing, nutrient-rich foods at every meal,” said Graves. “As far as fluids go, we recommend a cup every hour or so - that spreads the effects over the course of the day.”
A diet high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and low in saturated fats, cholesterol, refined sugar and salt are key for everyone, but matter even more as we begin to feel the impact of aging on our bodies and minds.
“Unfortunately, some of the changes related to the aging process can cause reduced appetite and limited tastes. It’s more important than ever to offer a variety of colors, tastes and textures at every meal - that’s why Belmont residents have 20+ menu items to choose from each day,” said Graves.
But providing the right foods in plentiful supply isn’t the only factor in helping older adults maintain good eating habits, according to Graves. “Most people don’t think about the impact of changing abilities on simple daily tasks. Many of the things we take for granted can be a challenge for seniors with mobility and movement issues, and can be a deterrent to dining.”
Belmont Village recommends the following tips to help older adults navigate the table with ease and enjoyment:
- Smaller Plate Size - Wasting food can be distressful for older adults, and large portions are often overwhelming. Smaller plates allow for a more pleasing and appetizing presentation
- Glassware - Shorter stems are okay, but should be sturdy, and the glass should have a pebbly, textured surface and a well-defined rim for less chance of spills. Reduced mobility and vision, along with arthritis and tremors, make delicate stemware a challenge.
- Coffee Cups - Look for large handled mugs that can accommodate three fingers, and no saucers. The clinking can be stressful for those with tremors, and having to manage two pieces can cause instability
- Silverware - Choose a good quality that seniors can grip easily and hold on to.
- Food Service - Pre-cut meats and other large foods in advance of the meal if help is needed so that unwanted attention at the table does not become a source of embarrassment.
- Furniture - Use chairs with arms and no castors for security and stability; make sure the table is sturdy - older adults will use the arms, and then the table, to rise - look for a broad pedestal-type that provides good support to the edges, or a table with 4 sturdy legs.
- Color - Keep it festive; use a clock face as a reference for seniors with vision issues.
“Helping older adults choose wisely from among the food groups can improve their health and zest for life. Getting them to the table is the first step - being sensitive to challenges and creating a positive dining experience will keep them coming back for more,” said Graves.
For more information about Belmont Village and our programs, please visit
www.belmontvillage.com.
Additional nutrition resource:
http://www.aoa.gov/naic/may2000/factsheets/nutrition.html
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