Family caregivers work hard to keep their aging relatives as healthy as possible.
One of the ways they may do that is by making changes to the way the older adult eats. Caregivers might cook healthy meals that include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. But, what happens when the older adult dines out? Is it necessary for all the caregiver’s hard work to go out the window? It’s not. There are plenty of ways that seniors can still eat a healthy meal even in a restaurant. Below are some tips that caregivers can share with older adults to help them make healthy choices when dining out.
Pick the Right Appetizer
When choosing an appetizer, seniors should try to pick the ones that are mostly made up of vegetables or fruits. Some good choices are a shrimp cocktail or lettuce cups. They should avoid appetizers that have been deep-fried, including deep-fried vegetables.
Avoid Sugary Drinks
Remind your older family member that the beverages they choose can add a lot of extra calories and added sugar to their meals. Caregivers may want to advise them to stick with water, have a glass of milk, or order herbal tea.
Split the Entree
Restaurants want their customers to walk away feeling like they’ve gotten a good deal for their money, so they frequently serve oversized portions. Seniors could split the entree they order with another person at the table. Not only does that prevent them from overeating, but it can also save them some money. If they don’t want to split the meal with another person, they could also ask for a to-go box at the beginning of the meal and put half the food in it before they start eating.
Check Out the Menu Ahead of Time
Many restaurants post their menus on their website. Caregivers can go over the menu with the older adult to help them make healthy selections. Look for symbols that indicate healthy choices. Also, pay attention to how foods are cooked. Opt for baked foods over fried ones. Skip foods that have fatty cream sauces.
Request Substitutions and Special Preparation
Call the restaurant ahead of time to find out if the older adult will be able to make substitutions or request that meals be specially prepared to be healthier. For example, see if they can swap the side of fries for a baked potato or a serving of vegetables. Also, ask if the chef can avoid using salt or put sauces on the side.
For more information about hiring a Caregiver in Coronado, CA, call the friendly caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare who can help your aging parents remain in their own homes, at 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in La Jolla, CA, and the surrounding communities.
Sources
Diet.mayoclinic.org
Choosemyplate.gov
Eatright.org
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