Food Safety for Seniors Aging in Place

Home care professionals understand that, for many seniors, food safety is a major issue. This is particularly true if your elderly loved one is aging in place and retaining the highest level of independence possible. Home Care, Durham, North Carolina, providers encourage you to understand the key issues regarding food safety—and to make sure that you address these concerns within your senior's home. As such, eldercare professionals have provided the following information to assist you in ensuring that your loved one has access to fresh, healthy foods that will support their physical wellbeing.

• Each week, quickly inventory the foods that your senior has in their pantry, refrigerator, and cabinets. Make sure that any expired or spoiled food is thrown away so that your loved one doesn't accidentally consume foods that can make them sick. 
• After grocery shopping, see to it that all food items are stored properly. For instance, it is important that fresh fruits and veggies are refrigerated to expand their shelf life. Additionally, meat should be stored in the refrigerator or the freezer to avoid cross contamination and spoiling. If your loved one is challenged by this task, as it can require prep work, plan to help them with their shopping and to put away their groceries afterward. By washing fruits and veggies, freezing meats, and organizing items, you can greatly assist your senior in keeping their kitchen stocked with nutritious foods. 
• Leftovers are wonderful for seniors, as they reduce the amount of cooking they have to do; however, it is crucial that you make sure that your elderly loved one is able to save their food properly. Make certain that they have containers that seal so that their food stays good longer. 
• Cooking food properly is key when maintaining food safety. Make certain that your loved one knows how to cook different meats to keep them from getting sick. If necessary, have a family member, friend, or home care professional on hand to help with this task. 

Food safety is a major concern for seniors because eating foods that are not properly stored or prepared can result in illness. As such, it is a wonderful idea to talk to your loved one about their food safety needs.