How to Cook for the Elderly & Home Bound
Cooking for elderly and homebound individuals requires a careful assessment of the situation, paying close attention to nutritional needs as well as medical issues. Creating balanced meals ensures that sick or otherwise impaired individuals receive the nutrients they need to recover and feel comfortable day to day. Meals that are simple to prepare make it easy for a caregiver to quickly offer something to eat whenever hunger strikes. To solidify the meal plan, discuss the options with a nutritionist or doctor.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Whisk
- Protein powder
- Fiber powder
- Nutritional supplements
Instructions
-
-
1
Before deciding what to make for the elderly or homebound person to eat, take note of his specific nutritional needs. Many sick people refuse certain types of foods or have a significant decrease in appetite. Consuming less food means there is a possibility of nutritional deficiency. This problem can be addressed through the use of protein powder, which when incorporated into meals boosts their nutritional value. As a caregiver, you should know the amount of calories the individual requires and try to include as many nutritious foods as possible in his diet. A nutritious store-bought drink supplement is full of vitamins and minerals, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
-
2
Medical concerns also require attention when preparing food for an elderly or homebound person. Diabetics must watch their sugar intake, or serious problems can occur. Offer people with swallowing difficulties soft foods, or process regular meals through a blender for easy consumption.
Gastrointestinal concerns arise if there is a significant lack of fiber in the diet. If the person cannot eat regular fiber-rich foods, use a powdered supplement at mealtimes to help keep the person regular. Blend the recommended dose into any liquid, such as juice or soup, to provide fiber with any meal.
-
-
3
Caregivers must learn to accommodate and modify meals when necessary for the homebound. Forcing an older sick person to eat because it seems important is an inappropriate reaction that will only add to her discomfort. Instead, offer small meals throughout the day at no particular time. An elderly person who is homebound due to illness will likely have a significant decrease in appetite, wanting only small amounts of food or liquid at a time. It is perfectly acceptable to encourage this type of behavior.
-
4
Quick and easy meals are important for both the homebound person and the individual preparing the food. Premade foods that are easy to swallow such as yogurts and soups are ideal and can easily be served to a person without the need for much preparation. Since pureed foods take longer to prepare, it's a good idea to create them ahead of time. Baby foods are already pureed and come in many varieties; they are another good option if the sick person cannot consume solid foods.
-
5
Consulting a professional alleviates the stress of trying to figure out what to feed an elderly or homebound person. A good nutritionist will offer meal ideas as well as dietary restrictions and recommended caloric intake. A doctor can advise you on the role that the individual's disease or condition plays in his life. Nurses are also helpful and can provide techniques for feeding as well as suggestions for improving the patient's quality of life. Medications and other simple aids such as drinking straws or special utensils make mealtime easier for all.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Hire someone to help with meals if difficulty arises. Try not to deviate from simple, nutritious meals. Ask the person you're cooking for what he enjoys most and provide it when possible.
Never force-feed a person. If choking is a serious risk, consult a professional. Provide psychological or spiritual assistance to a person who refuses to eat for nonmedical reasons.
