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Nutrition Education/Counseling

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Proper nutrition is particularly essential for older adults. The difference between poor nutrition and good nutrition impacts the aging process. Many older adults lack essential nutrients. They often have reduced appetites, so they tend not to eat balanced meals. As we age, our bodies change. Older adults may need fewer calories, but they still need enough nutrients, especially protein, minerals, and water. As part of health and wellness services, nutrition counseling helps seniors create an eating plan to enjoy the foods they love while ensuring they get the nutrients they need to promote good health.

At Westminster Place, we understand the importance of a nutritious diet for helping our residents stay healthy and stave off age-related diseases such as osteoporosis, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Our team of culinary professionals provides a variety of nutritious, 5-star-quality meals all day, every day. Nutrition counseling is just one of the many benefits we provide.

Call 903.329.6520 to learn more about our senior living community in Longview, TX.

The Impacts of Poor Senior Nutrition

Malnutrition occurs when you do not have the proper nutrients to function. Malnutrition is particularly harmful to older adults, as it leaves them more vulnerable to increased risk of falling, slower recovery times, hospitalizations, and possibly death. Health problems related to poor senior nutrition can include the following:

  • Impaired muscle function, which limits mobility
  • Anemia, which causes dizziness and overall weakness
  • Reduced cognitive functioning
  • Decreased bone mass
  • Prolonged recovery from illnesses or injuries
  • Significant weight loss or weight gain
  • Suppressed immunity

Changes in body composition, chronic health conditions, and medications all impact the nutrient needs of seniors. Senior nutrition education can address all of these factors.

The Benefits of Nutrition Education for the Elderly in Longview, TX

Aging often causes changes in appetite that result in seniors skipping meals or turning to unhealthy convenience foods that are low in nutrients and high in fats, sugar, and sodium. Providing senior nutrition education helps them recognize the significant benefits of a healthy diet to reduce the risk of health conditions, including:

  • Heart conditions–Unhealthy eating habits contribute to weight gain that increases the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and heart disease.
  • Vision loss–Poor nutrition increases the risk of vision loss and can exacerbate conditions like cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.
  • Weakened joints and muscles–A lack of calcium and protein increases the chances of developing arthritis and osteoporosis, leading to a higher risk for slips, falls, or broken bones.
  • Memory impairment–Poor nutrition can accelerate the loss of neurons in the brain, contributing to speech and memory impairments.
  • Cancer–Bad eating habits lower the number of immune cells in the body, which is a primary reason cancer is common in seniors with poor nutrition.
  • Bacterial infections–A low intake of vitamins, minerals, and proteins can reduce white blood cells, leading to a suppressed immune system less able to identify harmful bacteria and viruses.

At Westminster Place, we take the time to learn about our residents’ nutritional needs to ensure they have a balanced, healthy diet. Our residents experience five-star culinary dining composed of three-course meals made fresh to order by our highly skilled culinary team. Our exceptional dining menus are carefully crafted to combine fresh items that promote senior nutrition and tasteful excellence. Our flexible dining program lets you choose where and when to eat.

Learn More About the Senior Nutrition Program at Buckner Westminster Place Today

At Westminster Place Senior Living in Longview, TX, we support your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Our team works with you to learn about your challenges and goals. From this, we create a personalized plan for your overall wellness, including nutrition education.

Food is an essential part of life, and we provide our residents with fresh, exciting, flavorful, healthy dining options. Contact us today to learn more about our health and wellness services, including senior nutrition counseling.

Call 903.329.6520.