- Proper nutrition contributes to prolonging your life, says Dr Theocharis Ispoglou from Leeds Beckett University
- Create nutritious meal plans around what your loved ones like to eat, say Danforth chefs
For older adults (65+), especially those with less mobility and cognitive function, it can be harder to produce healthy and nutritious meals regularly. And not getting the right nutritional intake can have a big impact on the body and mind.
To raise awareness of this issue, Danforth Care Group have collaborated with Dr. Theocharis Ispoglou, a Leeds Beckett University Reader specialising in nutrition to discuss the importance of a highly nutritious diet, especially in older adults.
Danforth’s chefs also share how you can help if you’re looking after someone at home to produce healthy and nutritious meals.
The importance of nutrition
“For older adults, prioritising a nutrient-rich diet is crucial,” says Dr Ispoglou . “As with anyone, older adults who do not consume the necessary nutrients our body needs – and in the correct amounts -can lead to a range of physical effects and health complications. This is due to the risk of sarcopenia, a muscle-wasting disorder, which is a key contributing factor to many diseases and health complications. “
“Poor nutrition can contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of energy, which are common symptoms of depression; inadequate intake of essential nutrients can impair cognitive function and therefore increase the risk of cognitive decline and neurological disorders such as dementia.”
Getting the right nutrition
“If you’re looking after someone at home, ensure they have the support they need to be able to buy fresh food,” says Greta Hoxha, chef at the care home Heatherton House. “Make sure they have the right equipment to cook meals safely and have the correct glassware to stay hydrated. You can also support with cooking batch meals, as they are easier to then reheat for an older adult.”
“At Danforth, we ensure that our menus are nutritionally well balanced”, says Greta. “We look at everything from protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and even colour so they have a visual appeal”.
“It can also help to create meal plans around what your loved one likes to eat,” adds Louise Brown, head chef at Old Norse Lodge care home. “We hold monthly nutrition meetings with the residents, which allows them to give new ideas for menus and foods they wish to see on these.”
“For those living with dementia who may not be able to express their likes and dislikes, we seek support and information from families to help us with this information.”
The importance of hydration
“Dehydration can impair cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and alertness, which in turn can affect daily life and overall well-being.” warns Dr. Ispoglou.
“Hospitalisations, medical complications, and an increased risk of kidney and metabolic diseases are further consequences of not staying properly hydrated, and symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and mood changes can disrupt daily activities.”
“However, it is also important not to overlook the risks of overhydration, which can also have serious consequences. Overhydration can also affect cognitive function, causing confusion, disorientation, and in severe cases seizures or coma.”
Getting the right hydration
“To prevent dehydration and underhydration for older adults, the British Dietetic Association (BDA) recommends a daily water intake from drinks of about 1600 ml (approximately 6-7 cups) for women and 2000 ml (about 8-9 cups) for men,” says Dr Ispoglou.
“While these recommendations relate to fluids consumed through drinks, it is important to note that about 20-30% of our hydration needs can be met through the consumption of water-rich foods such as soups, stews, fruits, and vegetables. Hence, achieving proper hydration in older individuals should involve a balanced intake of both water from drinks and water-rich foods.” adds Dr. Ispoglou.
“If you’re looking after a loved one at home, to ensure they stay hydrated, ensure a minimum of two drinks are offered with each meal, and offer tea and cold drinks throughout the day. Make sure they have access to a drink at all times, and record the amount they have consumed,” recommends Chef Louise Brown.
