Tasty, Healthy Meals Your Senior Will Love

As seniors age, their sense of smell and taste can become dull, which often makes food unappealing. However, good nutrition is a major part of senior health, so it’s important to ensure that your elderly loved one is eating well-balanced and complete meals each day. Those who work in elder care services suggest trying out the following recipes. They’ll taste great and provide your elderly parent with the nutrition they need to feel healthy and strong.

Warm oatmeal and berries

Oatmeal is easy to eat, yet still full of nutrients. To kick it up a notch, add fresh or frozen berries, a small amount of butter, a serving of old-fashioned oats, and water into the Crockpot. Cover and cook on low for several hours (or overnight, if this is easier). When the meal is finished, it’ll have the consistency of bread putting. If you don’t have a Crockpot, simply add berries to warm oatmeal. The meal is soothing and filling, and not so rich that it’s hard to digest.

A hard-boiled egg

For a quick meal that’s full of protein, make some hard-boiled eggs. Serve them alongside fruit or toast. Even if your elderly loved one doesn’t feel particularly hungry, this meal will give them the nutrition they need to get through the day. It’s easy to eat and perfect for any time of year.

Yogurt parfait

For a sweet breakfast that’s also healthy, combine yogurt, nuts, and fruit. It’ll leave your senior feeling hydrated, and also provides a dose of healthy fat and vitamin C. Mix in any kind of fruit your loved one enjoys, including blueberries, pineapple, raspberries, and strawberries. 

Baked salmon

For a lunch or dinner that your elderly parent will love, homecare professionals suggest creating a flavorful salmon dish. Top the fish with tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, and lemon juice. Wrap it up in aluminum foil and bake it at 300 degrees. If the fish is already thawed, it should go in for about 15 minutes. Ideally, it’ll be flaky but still moist. Salmon is full of omega-3s and protein, making it the perfect meal choice. 

Shrimp and pasta

For a meal that’s flavorful yet still nutritious, heat up butter and olive oil in a saucepan, adding in herbs, garlic, and shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are done and then place over pasta.