Nutrition for the Elderly

As people age, their nutritional status can be impacted by musculoskeletal changes, digestive system changes, sensory changes, their general lifestyle and by any illnesses they may develop. Up to 50 out of 100 elderly people suffer from poor nutrition which can lead to unintentional weight loss and other complications.

IN GENERAL, ELDERLY PEOPLE SHOULD CONSUME:

• Nutrient-rich foods that provide from 1600 to 2800 calories per day, depending on gender and activity level.
• Whole, enriched and fortified grains  such as brown rice, whole wheat pasta and 100% whole wheat bread.
• Vegetables in a rainbow of bright colors—about 2.5 cups worth every day.
• Fruits, especially deep-colored fruits such as berries and melons—about 1.5 cups every day.
• Dairy products such as yogurt, natural cheeses and milk. 
• Proteins such as dried beans, nuts, fish, poultry, lean meat and eggs.  Most older adults need about 5 ounces of protein each day.
• Fluids to stay hydrated.  Unless otherwise ordered, divide your client’s weight in half and aim for that many ounces of water per day.

SPECIAL NUTRIENT NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY

• Older adults need more vitamin D and calcium to help maintain bone health. In addition to dairy foods, calcium-rich foods include fortified cereals and fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables and canned fish with soft bones.
• Vitamin B₁₂ is needed for mental alertness, memory and good circulation.  B₁₂ can be found in fortified cereal, lean meat and some fish and seafood.
• Fiber aids digestion and can help lower the risk for heart disease and control or prevent type 2 diabetes. Good sources of fiber include whole grain breads and cereals, beans and peas and fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Increasing potassium while reducing sodium (salt) can lower the risk of high blood pressure. Fruits, vegetables and low-fat or fat-free milk and yogurt are good sources of potassium. Also, prepare and/or offer foods with little or no added salt.