Eating well is a key to healthy aging
Getting the right nutrition is essential for people of all ages. While we know that growing children need the proper nourishment to thrive, good nutrition also helps older adults stay active and vital. It can even help defend against or better manage chronic conditions as we age, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
But for some seniors, a nutritious diet can be challenging. Tastes may change and appetites can fade due to a person’s physical condition or dental issues. The ability for an older person to eat healthy food on a regular basis can also de
pend on where they live, their economic situation or whether they have access to transportation.
The COVID-19 health crisis is another factor. For good reason, seniors may not be venturing out to the grocery store as much now. But that means they may be missing out on the food they need to stay strong and healthy.
Nutrition is a key to taking care of your body and your life. The right food improves your mood, your health and your abilities. Here are a few nutrition tips and resources:
Talk with your doctor
If your appetite is changing or you’re losing weight without trying, talk to your primary care physician. There could be an underlying reason for these changes. For instance, your medication might be affecting your appetite or you could be dealing with depression.
Your doctor can work with you to identify possible causes. Remember, staying connected to your doctor is always important, so ask
about telehealth or virtual health care appointments to get the advice you need if you’re sticking close to home during the pandemic.
Make healthy choices
Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your plate for colorful, nutrient-rich, fiber-filled meals. Add flavor with spices and herbs instead of salt. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. Even light exercise can stimulate appetite and strengthen bones and muscles. Check your health plan, as some even offer a fresh produce card or coupons to use at the grocery store as part of their benefits package.
Adapt to your changing tastes
There are many ways to change your habits to improve your nutrition, from eating more frequent, smaller meals to trying new foods and cooking styles. For tips on preparing healthy meals, visit ChooseMyPlate.gov.
Take care of your teeth
A dentist can help address any dental problems impacting your ability to enjoy food. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have access to dental benefits at no extra cost. Check your health plan for details.
Explore options
If mobility is an issue, look for local organizations that offer transportation or meal delivery to older adults. Using home delivery services to shop for groceries online is also helpful for anyone who still wants to cook your own meals, but doesn’t want to leave home during the pandemic.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have access to home-delivered meals following a hospitalization. One-third of hospital patients are malnourished at admission and poor nutrition increases their risk of having to return to the hospital after being released. Good nutrition helps patients regain their strength and energy faster for better recovery. Check your health plan for details.
Get help
Some older adults with limited resources may qualify for assistance with food purchases through programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (known as SNAP). Many older adults qualify for this program but don’t even know it.
One way to verify eligibility is to visit Cigna.BenefitsCheckup.org, scroll down and click “Get Started” under the “Food & Nutrition” section. If you aren’t eligible for this type of assistance, you can still find ways to save on food bills, including asking for senior discounts, using coupons, having a store discount card and buying store brands.
Remember, every person has unique needs. Talk with your physician to get guidance tailored to your own personal nutrition requirements.
One last tip: The annual election period when people eligible for Medicare can shop for their plan runs through Dec. 7. It’s a perfect time to make sure your health plan has all the benefits you need to stay healthy and strong throughout the coming year. For more information, visit Medicare. gov/plan-compare or www. cigna.com/medicare.
Dr. Alla Zilbering is a board-certified internal medicine physician in Philadelphia. She graduated from SUNY Buffalo School of Medicine and completed her internal medicine training at Temple University Hospital. She is the market medical executive for Cigna’s Pennsylvania region.