Meal planning for seniors is often difficult due to nutritional needs, food intolerances, and health conditions. However, preparing meals in advance can save caregivers time and minimize stress while also making it easier for seniors to feed themselves. Instead of having to cook homemade meals, older adults can simply reheat pre-prepared dishes. Here are six healthy meals to make ahead of time for your senior parent.
1. Soups & Stews
Soups and stews are a great option for caregivers looking for healthy meal options. They’re easy to store in the freezer and can be customized to your loved one’s preferences and dietary needs. Try chicken noodle soup made with lean chicken, whole-wheat noodles, and hearty vegetables. You can also try healthy chili recipes made with ground turkey and protein-filled beans. Soups and stews are good for seniors who have difficulty chewing and swallowing food.
Many older adults need help preparing healthy meals. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of respite care. Columbia seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.
2. Steel-Cut Oats
Eating steel-cut oats is a healthy way to start the day, as their fiber content promotes healthy digestion. Whip up quart-sized batches of oats, which can be safely stored in the refrigerator for days. When your loved one wants breakfast or a snack, he or she can spoon out a portion of oats, microwave it, and add a pinch of sugar to taste. To increase the nutritional value, consider adding protein powder or calcium-rich milk.
3. Pre-Portioned Snacks
For seniors who are resistant to eating full meals, it’s important to make eating as easy as possible. When caregivers prepare pre-portioned snacks, seniors may be more willing to eat. Options include hard-boiled eggs, which are a great source of protein, and snack-sized portions of cheese and whole-wheat crackers.
4. Scrambled Egg Muffins
Make healthy scrambled eggs filled with low-fat cheese, lean proteins, and leafy vegetables, then pour the mixture into muffin tins and cook. Store them in the freezer in plastic containers, and your loved one can pop them in the microwave when he or she wants a warm breakfast.
Preparing healthy meals for a senior can be challenging, especially when you have other important tasks to tend to. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality in-home care, Assisting Hands Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to helping seniors live longer and healthier lives.
5. Baked Pasta Dishes
Baked pasta casseroles keep well when frozen, and they’re versatile enough to accommodate a senior’s dietary needs and preferences. Boost nutritional value by using whole-wheat pasta and adding vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. You can store the entire casserole in one large container, or you can portion out single servings and place them in individual containers. The latter option may make it easier for your loved one to choose and reheat dinner when he or she is alone.
6. Chicken Fingers
For seniors who have difficulty using utensils, make some freezer meals that can be eaten without having to use a fork, spoon, or knife. Chicken fingers are a popular option. Use fiber-filled corn flakes and parmesan cheese as a crunchy coating, then freeze the nuggets for later use.
Eating nutritious meals isn’t the only way older adults can boost their health. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Columbia families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today.
