Dietary needs evolve as people age, and seniors need to know how to manage those changes to maintain physical health and wellness. Older adults need to take an active role in shaping their diet and nutrition habits to ensure more energy, better disease prevention and quality of life.Seniors should consult their physician to discuss their individual needs. Healthcare professionals can also help seniors and their families create and implement healthy eating plans.These plans often include:Increased protein and fiber intake. Protein and fiber are important nutrients for seniors. Foods high in fiber can help maintain healthy digestive systems as we age, and increasing protein intake can help seniors increase or maintain energy and strength. Whole grains have multiple benefits. Whole grains are also fiber-rich foods that not only aid the digestive process but promote healthy hearts for seniors. Cereal, rice and bread made with whole grains can easily be found at any grocery store and provide several serving choices to meet recommended daily requirements.Calcium is a key component in maintaining bone strength. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when calcium intake is consistent. Preventing osteoporosis is critical for seniors especially those that are at risk for falls.Hydration is critical at any age. Physical changes that occur with age make hydration even more important for older adults. For those that are less inclined to drink water, there are alternatives milk, juice and broth are all hydrating liquids, and there are hydrating foods including watermelon, cucumbers and grapes. If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps seniors can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns they might have, they can also try the following tactics to get back on the right track:Make meals a social occasion Sharing a meal is one of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can include making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them some company at meal times.Make healthy eating fit your budget Good food doesnt have to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget friendly, nutritious food options. And, maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves money on medical care in the future.Shop for healthy foods Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet. Encourage people to ask for help If someone has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just arent getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.Comfort KeepersCan HelpIf someone is struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, consider getting support from the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers. Our caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and can help support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.References Mayo Clinic. Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition. Web. 2017.Next Avenue, Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults. Web. 2016. Public Health Post. Malnutrition in Older Adults. Web. 2017 Healthline. How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age. Web. 2017.

As we age, staying physically active becomes essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and enjoying more vitality and well-being. Fortunately, there is a sport that has gained popularity among seniors in recent yearspickleball. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, offering numerous benefits for older adults. From improving cardiovascular health to fostering social connections, this low-impact sport has proven to be a game-changer for seniors seeking an enjoyable and accessible way to stay fit. Let's delve into the world of pickleball and explore the benefits for older individuals. Low-Impact Exercise One of the most significant advantages of pickleball for seniors is its low-impact nature. Unlike high-impact sports like running or basketball, pickleball places less stress on joints, reducing the risk of injuries and joint pain. The game is played on a smaller court, requiring less lateral movement and putting less strain on the knees, hips, and ankles. The low-impact nature of the game makes pickleball an ideal choice for seniors with arthritis or those recovering from joint-related surgeries.Furthermore, the game's slower pace allows seniors to build endurance gradually while engaging in a moderate-intensity workout. Combining aerobic and anaerobic movements in pickleball enhances cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the heart. Regular sessions help seniors improve their overall fitness levels, stamina, and balance, reducing the likelihood of falls and enhancing their independence. Social Interaction and CommunityPickleball is more than just a sport; it's a social activity that fosters connections among seniors. Many communities and retirement centers now offer pickleball facilities, bringing people together to play and socialize. The game's doubles format encourages teamwork, communication, and camaraderie, making it an excellent opportunity for seniors to meet new people and develop lasting friendships. Playing pickleball promotes a sense of belonging and community involvement, which can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seniors who participate in pickleball leagues or join clubs often report increased happiness and improved overall quality of life. Cognitive BenefitsPickleball isn't just a physical workout; it also offers numerous cognitive benefits for seniors. The game requires strategy, quick thinking, and hand-eye coordination, stimulating the brain and promoting mental agility. Regular pickleball play can enhance cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills, reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Moreover, pickleball provides a unique opportunity for seniors to engage in continuous learning. Whether learning new techniques, refining their shots, or adapting their gameplay, seniors can continuously challenge themselves and expand their skill set. This mental stimulation contributes to maintaining a sharp mind and a sense of accomplishment. Pickleball has emerged as a beloved sport for seniors, offering many benefits for their physical, social, and cognitive well-being. The low-impact nature of the game allows seniors to remain active without putting excessive strain on their bodies. The social aspect of pickleball fosters a sense of community and combats social isolation. Additionally, the cognitive demands of the game help seniors stay mentally sharp and agile. So, whether you're a seasoned player or a beginner looking for a new hobby, consider embracing pickleball as a game-changer for your overall health and happiness in your golden years. Get on the court and start experiencing the remarkable advantages of pickleball today! Comfort Keepers Can HelpCaring for others and ourselves can take a lot of thought and preparation as we age. Our Comfort Keeperscan help encourage seniors to meet activity guidelines, recommend ways to add more physical activity to their day, and can help to motivate a senior to stay active. Our trained caregivers can provide transportation to a local park, a trail, or greenways to enjoy a walk together or watch a pickleball game. Caregivers can drive clients to scheduled doctor appointments, provide mobility assistance and meal preparation, and help with activities of daily living. We believe in Elevating the Human Spirit by providing our clients with practical assistance and daily moments of joy. By giving equal parts compassion, attention, and comfort, our goal is to help seniors feel independent again while promoting good health to enjoy their days. ResourcesNational Library of Medicine (NIH): Pickleball: Injury Considerations in an Increasingly Popular SportAmerican Institute for Preventive Medicine: What can the Well-Being Industry Learn from Pickleball?Medical University of South Carolina: Pickleball: Fastest Growing Sport Especially for Seniors

Caregiving can be a rewarding experience, and an opportunity to give back some of the care and compassion received earlier in life. As we watch family members age, it can bring up big emotions and challenges. It's hard to see an aging parent loved ones growing older and in need of help. Especially when it comes to having the initial conversation about options like in-home care. Having that first conversation about a loved one and their needs can be challenging, but it should be done sooner rather than later. As a person ages, their ability to make decisions may diminish. For a decision as important as this one, everyone in the family should feel heard. Steps for a Successful Family Care Conversation Step 1: Plan the ConversationAs the saying goes, seeing is believing. Phone calls don't always convey the complete picture of the situation. How can your family make this easier? Try to pick a date and time when you can get the whole family together and in person for this vital conversation. If its impossible to get your family together in person, a video call can be a great alternative. Try not to wait for an accident or medical emergency before addressing the future after all, it is always harder to think clearly and make decisions in moments of crisis.  There are many different options for in-home care, and information can help find a solution that is the best fit. Start your research to see what you think is best for you and your family. Step 2: Share concerns from a place of love  Although this can be intimidating, staying calm and taking breaks is important. The initial conversation is to understand each other and begin to set goals together as a family. Have the necessary paperwork or documents to help everyone in the family. Share any stories or anecdotes from the older family members doctors or friends will be helpful as well. It's easier for everyone to understand the situation when medical records illustrate important care concerns. If the older member of the family expresses interest in staying in their home as they age, then in-home care may be the right choice for them. Seniors who use home care services report 25% fewer doctor's visits than those who do not. [AM1] Step 3: Talk it out Make sure you give everyone time to speak; everyone might not always agree during this process but respecting each other and staying level-headed is key. Ultimately a good rule of thumb is to ask a lot of questions. Ask siblings and family members for their thoughts and what they think about getting an aging parent in-home assistance, and ask the loved one their desires for this next step in life. What to do after the first conversation? Give it some time, and make sure everyone has collected their thoughts from the initial discussion.  Every family is different. Don't feel discouraged if a few conversations are needed before everyone is comfortable moving to the next step. It can take some time for siblings and family members to come around; just remember to be patient and make sure everyone has a clear understanding of their role and responsibility in this decision.  Here's a resource to help define the roles when moving forward. Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support, and assistance with daily living. Caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find joy and happiness each day, regardless of age or understanding.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.