Nothing makes cold weather more bearable for a senior than eating a hot meal. The key is to make sure older adults are eating meals that warm them up while still making it easy for them to stick to a nutritious diet. Here are five healthy recipes that can help your aging loved one stay warm in the winter.
1. White Bean & Chorizo Soup
This protein-rich soup offers the savory combination of navy beans and sausage, and it’s also made with a variety of nutritious vegetables, such as red bell peppers and spinach, which are both rich in potassium and vitamin C. Getting enough vitamin C can keep your loved one’s immune system working its best while aiding in protecting every cell in the body. The white beans and vegetables in this hearty soup contain potassium, which increases bone and muscle strength and supports cardiovascular health.
A professional caregiver can prepare warm and healthy meals for your loved one. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of elderly home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
2. Roasted Chinese Red Snapper
Red snapper is a good source of potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. Sautéed broccoli and rice would be the perfect side dish to go with this flavorful meal. Broccoli has high amounts of vitamin K and calcium, which are crucial nutrients that can benefit your loved one’s bone health and prevent him or her from getting osteoporosis.
Preparing healthy meals is one of the many tasks seniors may need assistance with. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Rocklin, CA, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
3. Lentil Vegetable Stew
High in folate and fiber, this stew contains chopped celery, carrots, red onions, minced garlic, and tomato sauce. Lentils are rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber, which are healthy for an older adult’s cardiovascular system. They also contain high levels of magnesium, which can increase oxygen and blood flow throughout the body and keep the heart healthy.
4. Liver & Fennel
This delicious and healthy liver dish is cooked and steamed in a frying pan with extra virgin olive oil and topped with fennel, chopped onions, and cabbage. Fennel and liver are rich in iron, which plays a major role in distributing oxygen throughout the body. Fennel is also a wonderful source of fiber, which promotes regularity and heart health in older adults.
5. Garden Lasagna
With this meatless lasagna dish that contains carrots, corn, and zucchini, your loved one can get his or her daily dose of vegetables. You can make this lasagna even healthier by using low-fat cottage cheese, milk, mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of B-complex vitamins, which can enhance digestion, brain function, heart health, and metabolic functions. Carrots and zucchini both contain vitamin A, which can boost eyesight. It also has antioxidants that can stop premature wrinkling and enhance skin renewal.
Hiring a professional caregiver is another way to ensure your loved one stays warm and receives help with everyday tasks during the winter season. Rocklin at-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today at (916) 226-3737 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.