As the world begins opening back up and it’s safer to spend time with your senior loved ones, consider how you might spend more quality time with them. The pandemic increased social isolation for many of us, but especially the senior adult population. This lack of human connection can adversely impact daily behaviors. Aging adults who eat meals alone tend to have a poorer diet compared to those who enjoy meals in the company of others. They can begin to lack the motivation to cook or eat.
Mealtime is meant to be a social time. As we return to a more familiar way of life and begin to gather again in person, Home Instead encourages you to spend mealtime with your senior loved ones and friends. Not only will it strengthen your relationship, it also improves the health of seniors by eating regular, healthy meals.
“We know that being together at mealtimes reduces feelings of isolation and improves nutritional intake. But the pandemic has made this increasingly difficult for seniors - impacting their overall health,” says Mark Barlow, owner of Augusta’s Home Instead. “Studies show that lonely seniors skip more than 20% of their meals, so bringing them together, especially at mealtime, can help keep them healthier and happier,” he continues.
Home Instead has introduced the Companionship Diet, a free program designed to demonstrate the health benefits of enjoying meals together and to offer resources to help guide more informed nutritional choices. Included in the program are recipes, tips, and materials to inspire seniors and their family members to make healthier choices and spend quality time together preparing and sharing nutritious meals. Anyone can play a role in ensuring the aging population continues to feel connected as we recover from the pandemic. With the Companionship Diet, Home Instead is able to show the positive impact social interaction shared at mealtime can have on the physical and emotional health of aging adults.
Home Instead is a locally owned, state licensed, in-home senior care service and their mission is to enhance the lives of aging adults and their families. The primary focus of caregivers with Home Instead is to develop a personal relationship with their clients and are often considered a part of the family. Caregivers can help with activities of daily living such as light housekeeping, preparing meals, grocery shopping, bathing and dressing. “We can do basically anything that a family member could do if they were able,” says Mark Barlow.
To contact Home Instead, visit their website at www.homeinstead.com/788 or call their 24/7 number (706)922-3601. Additional information about Companionship Diet can be found at www.homeinstead.com/companionshipdiet.com.
Tip One Involve your loved one in the preparation process. Maybe they can mash the potatoes or frost the cake. Or they can simply sit and chat while you are cooking.
Tip Two Plan simple and healthy meals. Ask them if there is a recipe they would like you to make. Make sure to include grains, fruits, and veggies for a balanced nutrition.
Tip Three Schedule regular mealtimes. Plan to get together weekly or monthly to enjoy and meal with your loved ones. Involve them by asking what dishes they prefer. This will help keep them engaged and give them something to look forward to.