National Nutrition Month
Senior Care in Plainview NY
What exactly is National Nutrition Month, and why should it be important to you and the senior in your care? According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – the creators of National 
Nutrition Month – National Nutrition Month is an educational campaign focused on teaching people the importance of making informed food choices and developing good physical activity habits. The 2016 theme is, “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right.”
Maintaining good health through diet and exercise is important throughout life, but as we grow older, diet and exercise becomes even more important. As we get older, our nutritional needs change. People are often less active as they get older. Seniors face more health issues as they age, as well. Things like obesity, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and depression, can be managed with a good diet and exercise.
Here are four health tips to consider implementing (with the approval of a doctor) in your senior care plan for National Nutrition Month and beyond.
- Resistance Training – The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests resistance training as a means of preventing muscle loss among seniors. Resistance training can be done anywhere, all that’s needed is a set of free weights. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends training for 20 minutes a day, two to three times a week.
- Cardiovascular Exercise – In order to maintain good health and mobility, part of your senior care plan should include cardiovascular exercise. High intensity cardio is not necessary, something as simple as incorporating a daily walk routine has great health benefits.
- Fruits and Vegetables – Fruits and vegetables are an important staple in every person’s diet. As we get older and lead more sedentary lives, diet plays an essential factor in maintaining good health. Fruits and vegetables are a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and are essential in reducing the risk of developing heart disease and high blood pressure.
- Well-rounded Meals – Eating well-rounded, healthy meals is an easy way to maintain good health among aging adults. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, proteins should come from fish, beans, and peas. In addition to protein, whole grains and dairy are also important in a well-rounded diet.
Even if the senior in your care doesn’t live a healthy life style at present, incorporating healthy choices doesn’t have to be complicated. Making good food choices and staying active will go a long way in ensuring your aging parent has a better quality of life.
Before incorporating any dietary or exercise changes into your senior care plan, always consult a physician.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in Plainview, NY, please contact the caring staff at Family First Home Companions. Serving all of Long Island. Call today: (631) 319-3961
Jennifer has specialized training in Alzheimer’s disease through the Long Island Alzheimer’s Association and the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation.She also volunteered her time with the Alzheimer's Disease Assistance Center of Long Island for 3 years by providing cognitive stimulation to an Alzheimer’s patient group.
Jennifer educates the community about elder care and speaks to caregiver support groups, senior centers, and at professional organizations.Topics include home safety, effective strategies for family caregiving, elder care planning, and awareness about elder abuse.
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