As we all know nutrition and hydration play a crucial role in our bodies health and development. It majors around nutrients in food and the way our bodies utilise them. Nutrients ultimately provide our bodies with the nourishment needed to thrive and to live our daily lives. In order to function each day, we need a careful combination of proteins, carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins, minerals and water. Without this balance of nutrients coming into our systems daily, we are prone to developing some health complications and struggle to carry out even the most basic of tasks.

Here at Willow Grange, we are committed to help provide our elderly residents with the right nutrition to ensure that they are nourished and have the ability to thrive. 

What are the different types of nutrients? Willow Grange Nutrition In The Elderly 2 225x300

  • Proteins

Proteins include amino acids. These are naturally occurring organic compounds. Some amino acids are more needed than others. Good protein dishes are those that contain many, if not all, of these amino acids. For meat eaters, beef, chicken, turkey, dairy products and fish are a great source of protein. We are also proud to provide vegan and vegetarian options for our elderly residents, including tofu, lentils, chickpeas and peas as an ideal source of protein.

  • Fats

Fats act as a lubricant for bone joints and preserve the health of the brain. Fats also assist the body organs when releasing hormones. Too much fat can cause obesity, heart problems and liver disease. However it is important to ensure that elderly residents have a good level of healthy fats from food such as avocado, eggs, fish and nuts.

  • Water

Most of us are aware that the adult human body is composed of about 70 percent water. It, therefore, requires water for it to function well and to its best ability. Water has no calories and it’s important for our elderly residents to stay hydrated. You can source water from different liquids, fruits, and vegetables.

  • Micronutrients

Micronutrients are nutrients our bodies need in small amounts. They include vitamins and minerals. Minerals help essential organs of the body such as the heart, bones, kidneys and nerves to work well. Vitamins also remove toxic substances from the body, which is needed as large amounts of toxic substances can damage cells.

The Importance Of Nutrition In Elderly Residents

Willow Grange Nutrition In The Elderly 1 225x300

Eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet ensures we remain healthy even in old age. Good elderly nutrition ensures we have a constant supply of energy to perform various tasks throughout the day. It will also prevent malnourishment. Malnourishment occurs when our bodies lack crucial nutrients. It can cause unnecessary health problems for elderly residents in care homes. Here at Willow Grange, we have a team of dedicated staff members ranging from nurses, dieticians and a qualified chef to provide our elderly residents with a structured nutritious and tasty diet.

We understand that age can often cause a reduced appetite and that repetitive meals can often mean residents become disinterested in eating. Our team is committed to ensuring that our elderly residents benefit from a variety of meals that they love. That is why our residents have the option at each mealtime to choose what they would like to eat. We feel that offering our residents the choice assists in keeping them engaged with the food they consume.

Water is also essential for elderly residents in order to keep them hydrated. Our friendly and competent staff encourage and remind our residents to drink throughout the day, ensuring that your loved one always has access to fresh water and other beverages. We also offer fruits and vegetables, liquids such as tea and juice that are naturally hydrating foods.

Nutrition for Residential, Dementia and Nursing Care

Our talented team of catering staff are highly knowledgeable and experienced in preparing well-balanced nutritious dishes. They use garden-fresh and nearby sourced ingredients to prepare meals that our residents love daily. Our incredible chef, Chris goes above and beyond to get to know each resident and what food they do and do not like to eat. Our elderly residents are able to eat delicious, nutritious food made specifically for them and their dietary needs. 

To find out more about nutrition at Willow Grange or to book an appointment to see our wonderful home for yourself, please click here.