Eating fruits, vegetables, and lean meat as an alternative to greasy, fattening foods is essential for seniors who want to maintain their health. Instead of heavier meals with a lot of preservatives in them, your senior loved one can enjoy a light, fresh salad containing a wealth of nutritional benefits. Kitchener elder care experts have 4 suggestions to serve your loved one for his or her next meal.
1. Fruit Salad
Fruit salads can be made in almost any way imaginable, though fruits that are in season are usually the best options because they will be fresher and more nutrient-rich. Strawberries and blueberries are ideal for spring and summer, and cantaloupe is the perfect end to a long day in the fall. Berries have antioxidants that can help boost your loved one’s immune system, and cantaloupe is full of vitamins A and C, which many seniors don’t get enough of in their diets.
2. Chopped Kale Salad with Almonds and Maple Vinaigrette
This is a refreshing salad made with a kale base and topped with slivers of almonds, cranberries, and vinaigrette made with vinegar, honey, and a small amount of maple syrup. Kale is rich in fiber, and it also contains a high amount of folic acid and protein, and the almonds have plenty of protein as well. If your loved one doesn’t eat meat, this salad is a healthy alternative for getting some protein in his or her diet.
3. Autumn Salmon Salad with Honey Apple Cider
Seniors who want a salad with lighter flavors might enjoy this dish, which consists of a salmon base topped with sliced beets and vinaigrette made with honey and apple cider. Salmon is good for the heart and the brain because it contains omega-3 fatty acids, and the high fiber content in beets makes them good for heart health. Sliced apples can also be added to the salad for an extra boost in brain health.
4. Chicken and Cashew Salad
This salad can be combined with a wide variety of vegetables for a healthy, well-balanced meal. Grilled chicken works best because it won’t have as much fat as fried chicken. There is plenty of protein in both the chicken and the cashews, and adding some leafy greens like spinach or romaine lettuce can provide your loved one with some A and C vitamins.
Making dietary decisions with health in mind can put your loved one on the path to longevity. If your loved one needs help maintaining a nutritious diet, turn to Home Care Assistance. All of our caregivers are trained in the Balanced Care Method, an evidence-based program that focuses on diet and other lifestyle factors that can help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. We also offer specialized Parkinson’s, stroke, and Alzheimer’s care Kitchener seniors can count on. For more information on our elderly care services, call one of our experienced Care Managers at (519) 954-2111 to schedule a free in-home consultation.