As health complications arise that may make it harder for the elderly to eat, their nutrition often takes a serious hit; one which can be extremely detrimental to their overall health, or if gone unwatched, deadly.

It is essential that the elderly are eating. This may sound silly, but as many get sicker with other diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, or painful or debilitating injuries the preparation and consumption of food can quickly drop off. They may simply not remember they haven’t eaten that day or the amount of effort which would go into preparing or purchasing food may be impossible.

Making sure that the elderly are eating the proper foods is the next stage. Although some foods may be tough or too time consuming to make or eat there are many options. The important thing is to ensure that they are getting the essential nutrients provided by fruits, vegetables, and meat. Calcium is also necessary to help maintain bone strength and density.

Find what your loved one enjoys to eat and then ways to make that attainable for them. Even if that means mass prepping food for the week so that it can easily be reheated.