Meal Services Help Seniors Stay Healthy at Home

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posted by Ted Ryan on June 20, 2016

My grandmother was the finest cook in the world. While everyone is entitled to their own opinion, I know the truth – Grandma Ryan was the best. When she passed away, my grandfather found himself in charge of his own meals for the first time in 61 years.

Healthy eating practices can be a big factor to ensure enjoyable and independent senior years.

Maintaining a healthy diet can improve mental sharpness, immunity, energy levels, recovery times and help better manage chronic health problems. Eating well also keeps the body strong and contributes to emotional balance.

Unfortunately, many seniors don’t get important nutrients due to poor eating habits that result from limited mobility, depression, isolation, or in my grandfather’s case, losing the best cook in the world.

Luckily, services are available to help seniors get the balanced meals they need. We’ve highlighted two leading solutions.

Meal Delivery Services

Meal delivery services provide seniors who can’t regularly cook for themselves – or caregivers who need a break – with a healthy meal brought right to their door. These meals are appetizing, easy to prepare and delivered as needed. They can also cater to a senior’s specific dietary and nutritional needs.

Several popular meal delivery programs include (click on them for more information):

• Meals on Wheels of Greater St. Louis
• Mid-East Area Agency on Aging/St. Louis County Senior Centers
• St. Louis Area Agency on Aging/St. Louis City Senior Centers
• Silver Cuisine (offers 10% AARP discount)

Many senior centers also offer congregate meals, where seniors can socialize while enjoying nutritionally-balanced meals.

Home Care/Professional Caregivers

Sometimes, it’s not just the process of making the meal that’s an issue. We’ve found that the companionship of an SHC caregiver can make a big difference for seniors, who are less likely to cook for themselves or eat enough when they are alone.

Private duty home care, such as SHC, is a great solution. Professional caregivers can help with planning and preparing meals, cooking and cleaning up afterwards. They can also record what the senior is eating and notify family if concerns arise.

If you or a loved one would benefit from the cooking assistance of a professional caregiver, please contact us to learn more about how we can help.

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