Could Elder Care Help Your Parent Get the Nutrition that They Need?

By Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services | August 26, 2016 |

Elder Care in Briarcliff NY

Malnutrition can put your parent at serious risk for a wide variety of serious health complications. If your elderly loved one is not getting enough of the proper nutrients that they need in order for their body to thrive, their immune system may not be as strong as it should be, making them more vulnerable to illness and infection. They can also suffer from slower wound healing, increased bruising, dental problems, energy issues, and even cognitive effects. Finding ways to help your parent get the nutrition the way that they need is an important step in protecting their health and encouraging them to enjoy a higher quality of life as they age in place.

While there are many things that you can do to help your parent avoid malnutrition, one of the best decisions that you can make is starting elder care for them. An elderly home care services provider can offer a personalized approach to care, support, and assistance that addresses the individual challenges that your parent has when it comes to nutrition so that they can improve their diet and their overall lifestyle.

Some of the ways that elder care can help your parent get the nutrition that they need include:

Transportation to the grocery store. If your aging parent no longer drives and is suffering from mobility, balance, strength, or other physical issues that keep them from being able to grocery shop independently, they may not have the foods that they need to maintain their nutrition. This can cause them to rely on ordering food in or convenience foods that they can store for a long period. A care provider can offer your parent reliable transportation to the grocery store along with assistance at the store so that they can purchase the fresh, healthy foods that they need.
Meal preparation assistance. Seniors who live alone might not be interested in preparing large meals for themselves. They may prefer to rely on fast, convenient foods that do not require much preparation. A care provider can be with your parent to help them prepare healthy foods that offer a wide range of nutrients. This helps them to not only get the nutrients that they need, but also offers an emotional and mental boost by spending time with the care provider in the kitchen. This is a great way to support their wellbeing and keep their mind sharp and active.
Companionship. Eating alone can leave your parent unmotivated to eat healthy meals. Your senior may prefer to eat fast, simple meals in front of the television or while sitting in bed, which can contribute to them falling into ruts that diminish the range of nutrients that they are getting. A care provider can be with your loved one to offer companionship, conversation, and emotional support while they are eating. This makes eating a more enjoyable experience so they are more willing to eat more and eat a wider variety of foods.

If you or an aging loved one are looking for elder care in Briarcliff, NY, call the friendly staff at The Perfect Home Care at (855) 855-5728. Call today!

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Geralyn DiGiovanni, Manager, Client Services

Manager, Client Services at The Perfect Home Care

Geralyn DiGiovanni has been marketing director of The Perfect Home Care since July, 2013. She’s responsible for promoting the agency by identifying and reaching out to market segments that align with the services offered by The Perfect Home Care. Among others, she works closely with geriatric care managers, elder care attorneys, and assisted living facilities. Her industry-specific experience includes multiple stints as a companion aide for seniors. She also has extensive experience in the publishing industry, where she worked as an account manager. “I love this industry and am passionate about working with seniors,” she says.

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