I am passionate about nutrition for children and for the older population.
This passion was born many years ago when I was a young carer to my Grandmother, who was paralysed after a stroke, and who depended on us to support all of her body functions including eating. Despite the fact that my Grandmother refused food most of the time, and wanted so badly to end her suffering, my memories of finding all sorts of ways to persuade her to eat are uplifting and encouraging. I would be very creative about how to make her meals and how to encourage her to eat. Trust, attention and patience play the part. Little did I know that some years later I would be using the same strategies with my son who has autism and other complex needs that make eating a big challenge.
I always wanted to give more time to the subject of the older population and nutrition, so I am now inviting others to share their perspectives.
Sally Perkins, who is a former nutritionist and the Granddaughter to a trio of amazing octogenarians, is passionate about helping them stay healthy both in the body and in mind. Even in her 30s, she was learning how ageing changes our bodies and our eating habits. She believes that we are never too old to change our habits.
Sally is now working part-time as the Content Manager for a senior care site, which provides high-quality guides on a range of topics for senior adults. She presents 7 eating and drinking habits which will improve the lifestyles of any older adults.
Life expectancy in the UK has doubled over the last 200 years. In fact, around 10 million people are now aged over 65 years. And with our older population living longer, it’s even more important that we develop healthy eating habits as early as possible. After all, what you put in your body has a huge impact on your overall health and wellbeing.
Healthy eating can help lower high cholesterol, reduce high blood pressure and assist in managing diabetes. A good diet will provide the nutrients you need to help keep your body, in particular your bones, muscles and organs, healthy throughout your life. For older people, it’s even more important that they eat a good diet, which should include appropriate amounts of:
- Omega-3 Fish Oil
- Probiotics
- Calcium
- Fibre
- Protein
For a long, happy and healthy retirement, eating a healthy diet every day is crucial. This useful guide to healthy eating habits for seniors, telling you more about how you can enjoy a healthy diet.