Maintaining a healthy weight becomes more crucial for general well-being as the years pass by. While weight loss is a topic of concern for many seniors, some have the opposite challenge: weight gain. Gaining weight can be difficult, but it is necessary to maintain energy levels, muscular mass, and bone density, regardless of the cause—medical issues, decreased appetite, or other circumstances.
But it’s crucial to approach weight gain in a sustainable and healthy way, which is where personal care at home services comes in. It helps seniors understand the need for weight gain and how to manage it safely.
Consulting Medical Professionals About Weight Gain
More often than not, the mandate to gain weight often starts with the medical team. They can evaluate seniors’ present state of health, pinpoint any underlying illnesses that might be causing weight loss, and offer tailored advice to help seniors gain weight healthily.
Some of the suggestions they might have can be put into practice with the help of personal care at home caregivers, such as the following:
Emphasize Nutrient-Dense Foods
Seniors should give nutrient-dense foods priority over high-calorie, low-nutrient items like processed snacks and sugary sweets. Lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats are a few of these. Foods high in nutrients not only supply necessary vitamins and minerals but also promote general health and well-being.
Boost Calorie Intake
In order to gain weight, seniors must consume more calories than they burn off. However, it’s imperative that they approach this in a balanced manner.
Personal care at home can encourage seniors to gradually increase their calorie intake by including extra servings of meals and nutritious snacks in their diet. Additionally, seniors should consider including high-calorie foods such as avocados, almonds, seeds, nut butter, and olive oil in their diet.
Eat More Often
To guarantee a consistent intake of calories and nutrients throughout the day, seniors should aim for three main meals and two to three snacks. Going extended periods without food or skipping meals might reduce appetite, making it more difficult for them to reach their weight gain objectives.
Choose High-Protein Foods
Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of tissues, particularly muscles. Personal care at home can help them add foods high in protein to their diet by developing meal plans focusing on them. In addition, seniors may need to mix protein powder into soups or smoothies.
Focus on Hydration
Adequate hydration is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients, as well as general health. But if seniors find it difficult to get enough calories because drinking liquids makes them feel full, personal care at home can encourage them to drink between meals instead of with them.
Be Patient
Putting on weight can be a gradual process, particularly for seniors. Personal care at home can help them stay motivated by introducing new, healthy foods and celebrating their progress.
With the help of their medical team and personal care at home services, seniors can maintain their overall health, increase their energy, and gain weight safely.
If you or an aging loved one needs Personal Care at Home in Carmichael, CA, contact A Better Living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
Sources:
- https://www.unlockfood.ca/en/Articles/Seniors-nutrition/Healthy-weight-gain-for-older-adults.aspx
- https://www.healthstandnutrition.com/healthy-weight-gain-for-seniors/
- https://www.eatright.org/health/wellness/weight-and-body-positivity/healthy-weight-gain
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