Seniors Nutrition Needs: Do You Know What You Should be Eating as You Age?

As we age, our nutritional needs change. Physiological changes in the body cause things such as slower metabolism, less lean body mass, less muscle definition, lower bone density, slower metabolism, basal metabolic deficiency, and lower energy levels. Seniors may also be dealing with health issues on top of their bodies changing needs. Therefore, it’s important to map out a custom plan with your doctor or nutritionist to make sure you’re getting the most out of your diet. Proper nutrition can help stave off disease, increase cognition, increase strength and endurance and so much more.

Symptoms of Nutrient Deficiencies:
• Weight loss
• Decreased appetite
• Uninterested in hydrating
• Irritability
• Lack of concentration
• Feeling cold
• Loss of muscles and strength
• Prone to illness
• Inability to fight infection
• Impaired wound healing
• Depression
• Cognitive decline and confusion

Protein is critical as we age.

The aging body processes protein less efficiently than when we were younger. This isn’t just true for the elderly that might be ill or facing chronic conditions, but for all seniors.

A 2013 study recommends that healthy older adults consume 1 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. For the average woman that is about 70 grams and for a male, 100 grams of protein per day.

A few examples of what our diets offer in grams of protein is as follows:
4 oz chicken breast = 25 grams
2 eggs = 12 grams
2 oz cheese = 14 grams
½ cup of chickpeas (garbanzo beans) = 18 grams
1 cup leafy greens = 9 grams
1 cup broccoli = 2.6 grams
1 oz mixed nuts = 5 grams
1 cup of oatmeal = 6 grams
8 oz cow’s milk = 8 grams
8 oz almond milk = 1 gram

If you are having difficulty meeting your nutritional needs or have symptoms of nutritional deficiencies, adding in protein powders is also an alternative to whole food consumption that will help you meet your nutritional goals. Again, talking to a medical professional about what’s best for you is essential.

The folks at Aston Gardens at Tampa Bay have perfected senior community living and offer extensive opportunities and events for their residents to enjoy throughout each day of the month.

Aston Gardens’ Independent Living Features Include:
1. No maintenance
2. No more snow shoveling
3. No more yard work
4. Fine dining and chef-prepared meals
5. Convenience to shopping, the arts, sporting events, restaurants, pharmacies, medical care and much more
6. Safety and security of a gated community
7. Ongoing activities and events
8. Friendly staff and fantastic neighbors
9. Fabulous, resort-quality amenities

At Aston Gardens, they offer several options that suit multiple needs for each individual or couple.

Aston Gardens’ Senior Living Options at Our Tampa Bay Campus
In our beautifully appointed Tampa, Florida retirement community, we offer the following senior living options:
• Independent Living – Stay active through daily events, outings, and recreational opportunities while enjoying the peace of mind of having on-site staff

• SHINE® Memory Care – In our memory care program, residents will receive personalized attention and assistance with everyday living activities as needed

• Senior Assisted Living – Suitable for residents who need a little, extra assistance with daily tasks like medication management, personal grooming, and household chores

Aston Gardens is one of the most highly sought-after communities due to their dedication to senior needs, their commitment to enriching the lives of each resident and their families by providing personalized care, welcoming living spaces, and superior amenities.

Aston Gardens At Tampa Bay
Aston Gardens is a luxury senior living community offering the best combinations of active-adult lifestyles and personalized care services. Wake up inspired each morning with a wealth of amenities, activities, and support at your doorstep. Explore the stylish Grande Clubhouse and indulge in our unique lifestyle services: Sensations Dining, Celebrations Activities and Dimensions Wellness. Let our dedicated team members handle transportation, maintenance, housekeeping, concierge services and more. Here you will find compassionate people engaged in enriching the lives of seniors, ensuring their needs are taken care of every day. Aston Gardens At Tampa Bay offers the best value in affordable, carefree, senior living. Everything we do is focused on providing you the very best in senior living. It’s all right here!

See why so many people want to call Aston Gardens their home!

Call 813-343-4673 today or visit astongardens.com.