by John Smith 
If you're caring for an elderly person, diet is a big concern. As the body ages, energy needs reduce, metabolism slows down and people tend to develop constipation, digestion issues and a myriad of other health issues. Elderly people don’t process foods as easily after a certain age. So you need to build a diet plan for an elderly person that considers his or her nutritional requirements, energy needs and dietary restrictions.

Here are some basics.

Reduce fat intake
Elderly people should consume low-fat foods, particularly when it comes to meat and dairy. Replace red meat with lean white meats, poultry and fish. If allowed, dairy products should be low fat and served in moderate quantities.

Consider special needs 
Elderly people with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other debilitating illnesses have needs that might reduce their ability to eat and enjoy foods. Offer clear soups that can be drunk using a straw to prevent embarrassment. Cook colorful foods to create interest and make mealtimes a time to have fun.

Include natural fiber
A high-fiber diet can prevent digestion problems. Though seniors need more fiber, it should only be increased a bit at a time to prevent diarrhea. Elderly people with dentures may prefer a high fiber food without seeds, as these get caught in their dental work. Include soft fiber from cooked or baked vegetables, like sweet potatoes, or  high-fiber breakfast cereals and fresh fruits. Include legumes and grains that are rich in fiber, like barley. Make sure these foods are well cooked, and soft and easy to eat.

Include lots of fluids 
Elderly people should consume a great deal of fluids to keep their bodies supple and in good working condition. Fluids can be consumed in the form of water, but as thirst decreases as we get older, elderly people may not be proactive about drinking water. It’s best to incorporate fluids in the form of light soups and stews as well. For one thing, light soups and stews are easier to swallow and digest, while providing the elderly person the necessary fluid.

Be calorie conscious
The elderly don’t need as many calories as younger people do, because of the change in energy needs and their slower metabolisms. As a result, the total number of meals and snacks should conform to the caloric restrictions for that age group. However, please note that vitamin and mineral needs must increase if the body absorbs them less efficiently. Of course, an elderly person who is quite active will need more calories than one who is less active.

Focus on real foods, not supplements 
Sixty percent of the older population in the world use dietary supplements. While it’s good to take certain supplements to keep joints supple, it’s better to eat foods high in these nutrients than to take pills. Real food with minerals and vitamins help lower cholesterol and prevent cancer, apart from providing nutrition. Fruits high in vitamin C must be included in one’s daily diet. Vegetables high in Vitamin A (beta-carotene) and Vitamin C must be included as well. 

Include foods rich in antioxidants 
As we age, we suffer multiple damages because of free radicals, which contribute to rapid aging. To combat the effect of these free radicals, include foods rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids such as olive oil and flax seeds into the diet. Foods that contain Vitamin E such as sardines, herring, tuna, salmon, mackerel and trout are good for elderly people. You can also include nuts that are high in both omega-3 essential fatty acids and Vitamin E.

Keep meals  balanced
Meals must comprise of one portion of carbohydrate such as whole grain bread, pasta or rice, along with a protein-rich portion. Protein-rich foods such as eggs, white fish, milk, cheese, yogurt, lean meat, chicken, beans, and lentils can be included, depending on the health of the elderly person. Food portions and the quantity of each element should be computed based on the elderly person’s energy needs and dietary restrictions if any.

Avoid fried foods 
Fried foods are an anathema for aging bodies. Avoid them as much as possible. The digestive system is unable to process the saturated oils and fats in fried foods, and as a result, acid reflux and severe gastric issues can occur, along with constipation.

Restrict sugar and salt
Sugar, salt and all refined foods should be avoided completely or consumed in moderation. Unless specified by the doctor, all foods can be consumed. Though it’s okay to consume a favorite dessert or meal sometimes, note that excess salt and sugar are not recommended for anyone, especially the elderly. 

Maintain a mealtime schedule
Maintain a mealtime schedule for elderly people in your care and serve meals as much on time as possible. Elderly people need structure and can get moody, cranky or downright upset at times if things aren't timely. Plan the meals and let your elderly know what you’ll be serving so that they anticipate the meal.

Include necessary minerals
Iron deficiency is common among elderly people, especially those who do not eat much. In such cases, it’s all right to include red meat in the diet, and also iron-fortified breakfast cereals. Elderly bodies find it difficult to process zinc, which is why fish, poultry, and meat should be included in the daily diet plan. At least 1,500 mg of calcium per day must be taken in the form of natural sources such as dairy.

When elders don’t drink milk
If your elders don’t drink milk thinking that milk will upset their digestive processes, incorporate the much-needed calcium in the form of nonfat milk powder into their soups, stews, or even white pasta sauces. Include cheese, broccoli, and yogurt into the diet if your elders don’t drink milk.

Combat loneliness and depression with nutrition
Seniors are less active and many of them suffer reduced appetites, which leads to malnourishment. Loneliness and depression may reduce the desire to eat. You can help fight this by providing innovative, nutrient-rich foods at every meal, along with frequent healthy snacks, a lively environment, and multi-vitamin.

Serve several meals in a day
Elderly people cannot eat a lot in one sitting, as a younger person can. Serve small portions and serve several meals in a day, with a snack or two in the middle to avoid hunger pangs. This way, the elderly digestive process can digest the portions and be ready for the next meal.

John Smith is a retired RN who worked in elder care. H now runs NursingUniforms.net a one-stop shop for nursing and medical scrubs.