5 tips from the care specialists at Right at Home. 

Serving size, calories, trans fat?  

Understanding food nutrition labels can be challenging, and many consumers just figure, why bother? But for older adults, ignoring nutritional information can significantly compromise their health. It's important that the elderly members of our community are made aware that every bite counts. The World Health Organisation is a great resource for you and yours, and like us, they believe that adopting good nutrition often begins at the supermarket. 

They suggest the following 5 tips for adopting good nutrition for caregivers of the elderly.

1. Understand the basics of nutrition. Talk with geriatric health professionals and visit nutrition websites about essential food groups (fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and dairy) and healthy eating suggestions for older adults. Encourage elders to pay attention to the key components of food labels: calories, sodium, sugars and fats.
2. Plan first, buy second. Smart food choices involve planning which ingredients are needed for recipes and knowing their nutritional value, price and availability. Suggest that your loved one make a detailed list of foods and beverages they might need to buy for several days at a time. 
3. Think accessibility. For getting around the market smoothly, elders may want to rely on an electric shopping cart or ask an employee for assistance with getting items off shelves. To help eliminate impulse purchases, encourage the elderly to hold off food shopping when they are tired, hungry or feel rushed.
4. Consider using supermarket apps. To make food shopping easier, a number of cell phone and mobile device supermarket apps are available to create shopping lists, find bargains and scan barcodes. Several apps integrate menu planning, recipes and meal suggestions. Do a little research to make sure the app is user-friendly to match the elder's technical proficiency.
5. Arrange for assistance. If food shopping with an ageing loved one is not possible, perhaps a friend, neighbour or volunteer from an elder center or place of worship can help. Certain supermarkets offer online ordering and home delivery services. Some stores offer free delivery of groceries for elders, and others charge a nominal fee. Many older adults benefit from professional at-home elder care services like Right at Home, which can provide a helping hand with meal planning, grocery shopping and cooking — helping elders protect their health through regular, proper nutrition.

What food shopping tips do you suggest for the elderly?

Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship and personal care, and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently and age in their home. Right at Home Australia is your local expert for issues related to caring for your loved ones, and is dedicated to keeping you informed about home care. With no admin or subscription fees Right at Home allows you to get more care from your package or budget. ​

To find out more, please give us a call on 1300 362 609 or visit our website.