3 Simple Actions That Can Improve Seniors’ Quality of Life

Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for greater longevity.

October 2019 – Every stage of life deserves attention and specific care, especially the so-called “golden years.” At this time, caution needs to be redoubled, since the aging process demands more care from seniors and their families.

Ilana Elman Grinberg, a postdoctoral fellow in nutrition at Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein and a partner of the Umami Committee, points out that in this phase it is natural to see a reduced desire to eat. “This happens due to several factors such as a decrease in masticatory function, changes in taste perception and salivary flow, as well as compromised teeth or dental prostheses, which can lead to dietary imbalance,” she explains.

According to Ilana, the consistency of preparations should be considered to enable adequate food intake. Seniors or their families should pay attention to appropriate consumption from all food groups to avoid malnutrition.

Investing in healthy eating will not only bring improvements to the body but will also influence the senior’s quality of life and longevity. With that in mind, Ilana shares three care tips for older adults. Check them out:

Drink plenty of water

One characteristic of aging is decreased sensitivity to thirst, which can lead to dehydration. Because seniors may not feel thirsty, the specialist says that to avoid this problem, fluids should be offered throughout the day. “The recommendation to consume two liters daily applies, provided there are no fluid restrictions, which can occur due to cardiac issues or impaired kidney function,” she explains.

Maintain a nutritious diet

Promoting a balanced diet will help the body respond positively, increasing quality of life. “Nutritious foods rich in proteins and minerals should be present. Meats, fish, tomato, and cheese, for example, are rich in glutamate, the substance that allows us to perceive umami, the fifth basic taste of the human palate,” she notes.

The specialist adds that such foods help improve acceptance among seniors, since they enhance flavor and increase salivation.

Be mindful of the dining environment

The choice of where to have meals makes all the difference. “Many times, seniors feel alone when preparing and consuming meals. The presence of a family member or friend can be very beneficial. A cheerful, well-lit environment can also improve intake and the pleasure of eating,” the specialist concludes.

UMAMI
It is the fifth basic taste of the human palate, discovered in 1908 by Japanese scientist Kikunae Ikeda. It was scientifically recognized in 2000, when researchers at the University of Miami confirmed the existence of specific receptors for this taste in the taste buds. The amino acid glutamic acid and the nucleotides inosinate and guanylate are the main umami substances. The two main characteristics of umami are increased salivation and the persistence of taste for a few minutes after ingestion. To learn more, visit www.portalumami.com.br.