Nutritional Guidance for the Top 3 Chronic Diseases in Older Adults

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting the health of older adults, particularly those contending with the three top chronic diseases in older adults, which are:

• Hypertension, or high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke if not managed effectively.
• Type 2 diabetes, characterized by high blood sugar levels, which can lead to severe complications if left uncontrolled.
• Dementia, a decline in cognitive function, affects memory and thinking skills, making daily tasks challenging.

Experts agree that the type of healthy eating that benefits people with hypertension and diabetes may also help delay cognitive decline. At the same time, experts at the National Institute on Aging are careful to say there’s “no evidence that eating or avoiding a specific food can prevent Alzheimer’s or age-related cognitive decline.”

Here are some foods to embrace and avoid—for anyone wanting to eat healthy.

Say Yes to These Foods for Healthier Senior Years

1. Fruits and vegetables. Add color to your plate! Your diet should be as colorful as a rainbow. Different colors in fruits and vegetables mean different nutrients that your body needs. Fill your plate with greens like spinach, reds like apples, and oranges like carrots.
2. Whole grains. Instead of white bread or regular pasta, opt for whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal. Whole grains help regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health.
3. Lean proteins. Incorporate lean proteins such as fish (salmon and tuna), which are rich in beneficial fats, and skinless poultry like chicken and turkey. Plant-based proteins like beans and lentils are also excellent for muscle strength without burdening your heart or blood sugar.

Limit These Foods for a Healthier Outlook

1. Salt. Reducing salt intake is key in managing blood pressure. Consider switching to kosher salt, which has larger, flakier crystals. This makes it easier to use less and distributes more evenly, helping you control your sodium intake while still enjoying flavorful meals. Or try using herbs and spices instead of salt to keep your meals delicious and healthy.
2. Sugary foods and drinks. High sugar intake can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Limit sweets and opt for healthier drinks like water, unsweetened tea, milk, or milk substitutes instead of sugary sodas. If you miss the carbonation, try soda water and use fresh fruit to flavor it.
3. Saturated and trans fats. Saturated and trans fats, which are found in butter, cheese, and fried foods, can raise cholesterol levels. Cooking with healthier oils like olive or canola oil is a better choice.

Get To Know the MIND Diet

These guidelines mirror those of the MIND diet, which can enhance both brain function and overall health for people of all ages. The MIND diet combines elements of the Mediterranean and DASH diets to form a brain-protective eating plan. It is designed to prevent neurodegenerative diseases and aid in managing hypertension and diabetes.

Stay Hydrated

No matter what one eats, drinking plenty of water is vital, particularly for older adults. Water aids in overall bodily functions and maintains skin health. Aim for several glasses of water daily, and remember that fruits and vegetables also contribute to hydration.

How Right at Home Can Help

Right at Home’s compassionate caregivers can provide home care services for older adults with chronic conditions. A caregiver can assist them with grocery shopping and preparing appropriate meals. A caregiver can also offer encouragement and ongoing support in managing chronic health conditions while on the journey to a healthier lifestyle. To learn more about how a professional caregiver can help, use our office locator to find the Right at Home office nearest you.

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This article is not meant to replace the guidance of your health care provider. Always consult with your doctor to ensure these dietary recommendations suit your specific health requirements.