In order to feel energetic and healthy, a balanced diet plays a very important role in everyone’s lives. However, there are many reasons why special attention should be given to the diet of elderly people. Poor nutrition can cause:
• Chronic diseases;
• Dementia;
• Fatigue;
• Higher risk of infection;
• Reduced muscle strength
• And more.
A poorly balanced diet which isn’t rich with nutrients can cause malnutrition. It is estimated that over 3 million people in the UK are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition and over 1 million of those affected are over 65.
One of the reasons for these statistics are that even though some elderly people are looked after by the family, not everyone from the family knows what food should be served and what nutrients must be included in each meal.
Similarly, independence plays a role, as older people want to stay at home and remain self-sufficient, nutritious meals could make way for simple convenience. Elderly people might not have enough energy to cook meals and the knowledge of what is balanced diet for their age isn’t at the highest level. Diet should be composed of less fat but more fibre, vitamins and minerals. Also, it’s crucial to include enough protein as a deficiency of it can cause weakness, swelling and even muscle loss.
An important thing is that older people can get ill more easily than young people. When you’re not feeling well it’s normal that appetite decreases and the last thing you want to do is to cook food.
Any of these mentioned causes above leads to a lack of proper nutrition. Here at Avon Park we know how important a properly balanced diet is. Meals are taken in the spacious dining room that overlooks the front of the property and its beautiful gardens. Mealtimes are unhurried and relaxed so that it can be more a pleasant time for all our residents to enjoy the food and each other’s company. All meals are freshly cooked and a nutritious and varied menu is offered so residents can choose what they would like.
We provide all our residents with three full nutritious meals a day. We aim to provide special candle lit dinners with soft background music for residents every six weeks as an alternative to dining out.
