Why Good Nutrition Is Critical As We Age

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As we get older, our bodies and nutritional needs change.What we eat directly affects our energy, strength, immunity, and ability torecover from illness or injury. For older adults, good nutrition is more thanjust a healthy habit — it plays a vital role in maintaining independence,reducing the risk of complications, and improving overall quality of life.

Yet many people receiving care at home experience reduced appetite, unintentional weight loss, or difficulty preparing meals. That’swhy nutrition support is an essential part of ageing well.

What changes with age?

As we age, we often need fewer calories, but more of certainnutrients like protein, calcium, fibre, and vitamins. At the same time, commonage-related changes can make it harder to eat well. These may include:

·      Loss of appetite or interest in food

·      Dental issues or trouble chewing

·      Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia)

·      Reduced sense of taste or smell

·      Fatigue or mobility issues affecting meal prep

·      Medication side effects that impact digestion orappetite

Signs someone may not be eating well

Spotting the signs of poor nutrition early can help preventfurther decline. Watch out for:

·      Unintentional weight loss

·      Fatigue or reduced strength

·      Dry skin, slow wound healing, or hair thinning

·      Mood changes or low energy

·      Less interest in meals or skipping food entirely

Tips to support better nutrition at home

Supporting good nutrition doesn't have to be complicated.Small changes can make a big difference:

·      Offer smaller, more frequent meals instead oflarge plates

·      Include protein at every meal such as dairy,lentils, eggs*, tofu, or seafood

·      Use colourful, flavourful foods to stimulateappetite

·      Serve meals at the same time each day to buildroutine

·      Support hydration with water, soups, and herbalteas

·      Seek advice from a dietitian for specific healthor dietary needs

How Kinder Caring Can Help

Our care team can assist with meal planning, shopping,preparation, and feeding support, helping ensure meals are enjoyable andnutritionally balanced. We also monitor signs of poor intake and can coordinatedietitian referrals for clients who need extra support, including those livingwith diabetes, wound care needs, or swallowing difficulties.

Our goal is to make eating simple, safe, and satisfying —while supporting independence at every stage.

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