Lunch is an important meal for seniors because it bridges the gap between breakfast and dinner, discourages unhealthy snacking, and fills nutritional gaps. Ideally, seniors should focus on lunch options that are healthy, but taste is just as important, since age-related changes in taste buds can affect eating habits. Here are some nutritious and delicious lunch suggestions for older adults to consider.
Soups & Stews
Since there are plenty of variations with recipes, a hearty and nutritious soup or stew can easily be served for lunch any time of the year. Focus on recipes that offer a good blend of nutrients with a variety of veggies and spices to round out your aging loved one’s daily dose of vitamins and other essential nutrients.
Mix things up to focus on different health benefits. For example, cabbage soup may help with digestion and naturally lower cholesterol levels, and a hearty beef stew with plenty of onions and other veggies could naturally keep blood sugar under control. Lunches of this nature can easily be complemented with:
- A small veggie-packed garden salad
- A slice of rye, flaxseed, or whole grain bread for added fiber
- Parmesan-roasted zucchini or similar nutritious and tasty side treats
A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of encouragement when your loved one is trying to practice healthier habits, including eating more nutritious foods. Home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
High-Protein Wrap Sandwiches
Seniors need extra protein to keep aging bones and muscles strong. A tasty way to get a protein boost is with protein-packed wrap sandwiches served for lunch. Wraps can include an assortment of healthy sources of protein, with options that include strips of tender chicken breast, protein-rich Greek yogurt, black beans, plenty of veggies, and zesty dressings or cheeses for added flavor. For extra nutrition, consider sandwiches wrapped in spinach tortillas or naan bread.
Salads with Fruit Slices & Dip on the Side
Broccoli, salmon, spinach, and tomatoes are just some of the healthy, inflammation-fighting ingredients that can go into a salad prepared as a lunchtime treat. The focus on anti-inflammatory ingredients is important because many older adults have issues with inflammation-based conditions, such as arthritis, that can affect joints and mobility.
Salads that include foods like chickpeas provide added fiber and vitamins. A peanut butter dip can be served on the side so slices of fresh fruit can be conveniently dipped while your loved one enjoys the desired salad.
A professional caregiver can be a terrific source of support for a senior who needs a hand with planning and preparing nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care Potomac, a leading provider of elder care. Potomac Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Omelets
Some seniors are light breakfast eaters. If this applies to your loved one, treat him or her to a hearty and healthy lunchtime omelet. The eggs used in omelets are a good source of protein. However, omelets with seasonal vegetables, meats, or cheeses and palate-pleasing touches like whole-grain mustard and potatoes sprinkled with pepper can help with things like cell protection and inflammation management,
Smoothies
For older adults who have issues with chewing or digesting certain foods, smoothies can be a refreshing and nutritional lunchtime option. What’s also great about smoothies is that they can be prepared in a way that allows them to serve as a full meal replacement. Plus, a lot of the fresh fruits that can be included in smoothies are packed with cell-protecting antioxidants that offer added mind-body benefits.
Family caregivers need to maintain healthy lifestyles too, which involves taking time to attend to their own wellbeing. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Potomac, MD, Assisting Hands Home Care can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. Call one of our friendly Care Specialists today to schedule a free consultation.
