It is heartening to see news stories that do more than talk about seniors as a “growing aging population”, that look beyond some of the frailties and remind us how amazing life can be.
Not everyone can perform cartwheels at 86, like Germany’s Johanna Quaas, but remember there are lots of teens who would struggle to do any form of gymnastics. Often, they’re more interested in sedentary pleasures than being active and taking chances.
With Canada’s population getting greyer, don’t be surprised to hear more about individuals who are involved in activities that would test those 40 or 50 years their junior.
Refusing to see boundaries
While researchers are still trying to discover the key to long life, we know that a better health system has made a huge difference. This is not just about reactive care including better medicines and smarter surgeries but also proactive steps that have improved a person’s quality of life.
Lifestyle, particularly diet, has had a profound effect on how people have been able to retire but not slow down. Some have compared diet to having a personal bank account – when you eat good food it is similar to making good financial investments.
For some seniors in Canada, the problem is not overeating but the risk of malnutrition. They either skip meals or resort to eating food that offers few dietary benefits.
Eat good, feel good
Fortunately, many seniors are taking a more thoughtful approach towards their diet and acknowledging it is not enough to simply reduce the portion sizes of their meals. That general perception, was based on the view, as you got older you are not as active, so you need less calories therefore reduce your food intake. Because it appears to make sense it has grown into an accepted option – nothing could be further from the truth.
As you get older, the body requires a different kind of diet, usually with more nutrients.
A senior’s daily food list should include:
- Colourful fruits and vegetables
- More Dairy
- Omega-3s
- Protein
- Whole Grains
Heart to Home Meals offers meals specially designed for seniors that also cater to a number of dietary conditions. Information from a doctor or dietitian allows customers to make informed choices when looking through the Heart to Home Meals menu.
Seniors are keen to maintain their independence, even if living on their own. At times, cooking can become a chore and it is easy to skip meals. Having meals easily available can be a great comfort to seniors and family members.
Better Food, More Activity
Staying active helps to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even if everyone’s goals and desires are different.
Ottawa’s Bettye Whiting liked to zip around in sports cars until arthritis in her hip meant getting into a Ford Mustang was too difficult. For her new car, she decided she needed to select a ‘sensible’ vehicle. Cooking can also be a problem because she cannot stand for long periods, Heart to Home Meals is an ideal option for her after a busy day.
Everyone involved in Heart to Home Meals, from cooks to customers, are part of community that shares the view: good food improves the quality of life.
As a final thought, we may want to follow the advice of Albert Einstein: Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.
If you have a special story or event you want to share with the Heart to Home Meals community, email us at info@hearttohomemeals.ca