December 1, 2022
As your loved one ages, getting them to eat food regularly can be hard. Sometimes this is because your loved one can no longer taste things, and it can make mealtimes unattractive. Luckily, there are some things you can do to help liven up the meals you prepare for your loved one.
If you’re having problems tasting food, consider focusing on other key senses while eating. You can start by making the food appear better. Focusing on the textures and colors of the plate can be half of the challenge. When something looks better, a senior is more likely to want to sit down and at least try the food out. If a senior can still smell things, try adding unique spices and flavorings. Smell has a lot to do with taste; if they can smell it, they may be more likely to eat whatever is being prepared.
If you need more help prepping food for your elderly loved one, it is time to consider hiring elder care for your family. These professionals may help your loved one cook and clean while you work.
Seniors’ tastes will change as they age, and there is nothing you can do about that piece of the aging process. However, because their taste may change, it may mean they start to like foods they didn’t before. This means you’ll have to experiment with new foods. Certain foods can stimulate a senior’s taste buds, even without them realizing it. When your senior picks out the flavors, they can taste, and this will help you prepare meals around those flavors.
When your teeth are dirty, you may not realize how much it impacts your taste. When your senior has good oral hygiene, it can help them taste cooking better. Even if they have dentures, it is crucial to practice good hygiene.
Even if their taste buds change, they may still have a favorite food. Ask them what their favorite foods are, and you can focus on finding food with their favorite scent or flavor. Sticking to healthy foods you know they will enjoy will help your senior eat more and maintain a healthy weight.
A senior may not want to sit down and eat giant meals a few times a day. If you are focused on getting them to eat, try making small snacks filled with fiber and protein throughout the day. This may look more appealing and allow them to eat more foods they love. It is crucial to be flexible, and this is true whether you are an elder care provider or just a family friend helping a senior.
If your seniors’ tastes change suddenly, it can be a sign of something else. It could be a side effect of a medication, or even a sickness that has gone undetected until loss of taste occurred. It’s essential to get help if you notice sudden changes.
