Seniors who eat most meals alone are more than twice as likely to feel lonely as those who eat with others. According to a survey by Home Answer, Inc., social isolation can have profound effects, causing lonely seniors to skip more than 20 percent of their total meals each year.
As we return to a more familiar way of life and meet again in person, dining with older friends and family can strengthen relationships and likely have a positive effect on the quality of the food older adults consume.
To encourage families to spend more time at the dining table with older loved ones, Home, in Pinehurst, has launched a free community program. The Companionship Diet offers free resources like conversation starters, nutritious recipes, and tips for involving seniors in the meal preparation process.
“We know that being together over meals reduces feelings of isolation and improves food intake. But the pandemic has made it more difficult for seniors to do this – which affects their overall health, ”said Bob McCarthy, owner of the Home State® Moore County office. “Studies show that lonely seniors skip more than 20% of their meals.
There are a number of ways local families can involve older adults during meals, McCarthy added:
Include your loved ones in the preparation process. If they feel like it, ask your loved one to help prepare the meal. Maybe they can help puree the potatoes or freeze the cake. If your loved one is unwilling to help prepare food, he or she can sit and chat while you cook, give directions, or share old family recipes and stories.
Plan simple and healthy meals. Before dinner, check in with older adults and ask them to pick a favorite recipe that you could make. Better yet, ask them about their favorite childhood foods and incorporate them into meals. Add grains, fruits, and vegetables for a balanced diet. For seniors, think about portion size.
Schedule regular meal times. Schedule weekly or monthly get-togethers to enjoy a meal with older loved ones. Include them every step of the way by asking your loved one what ingredients they like and what dishes they prefer. This will help keep seniors busy and give them something to look forward to.
