If you help care for an aging parent or other loved one, you already know that eating well is a struggle for many seniors. In addition to challenges with recognizing thirst and hunger, many seniors simply are not interested in food when the temperature heats up. This can create risk as prioritizing proper nutrition and hydration are important factors in maintaining good health.
Having appealing, hearty, nutritious food on hand is a great way to ensure that your aging loved one eats well and doesn’t skip meals. Here are three simple, delicious items that can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for later consumption. These meal ideas are ideal for summer, but they can easily be worked into your care routine throughout the year. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about high quality homecare in Toronto, Mississauga and the surrounding areas, please contact us. We look forward to speaking with you!
Sandwiches and fresh sides
Many seniors enjoy a simple lunch consisting of a sandwich with a few things on the side—fresh fruit, veggies and dip, or a summer salad like coleslaw, potato salad or fresh greens. We recommend preparing a small container of tuna salad, egg salad or another family favourite so your aging loved one can put together a quick, protein-packed sandwich whenever they’re ready for a casual meal. Our caregivers would also be glad to prepare these items during their shift upon request.
Our caregivers can also prepare small trays of sandwiches (or individually wrapped sandwiches) so your aging loved one has access to a nutritious, convenient meal whenever they’re hungry. Similarly, our PSWs can portion out sliced fruit, sliced vegetables with hummus and other convenient lunchtime side dishes. As an added bonus, many of these sides double as quick and easy snacks!
Pasta salad with protein and vegetables
Preparing a large container of pasta salad is a great habit to get into during the summer months. Consider making a recipe that includes sliced chicken or another lean protein, chickpeas, legumes, fresh vegetables as well as a healthy vinaigrette or other dressing. Alternatively, you can add protein to just about any pasta salad. These dishes can also be made with quinoa or other healthy grains. Serve your pasta salad on its own or with fresh greens on the side!
Here are a few recipes to help you get started:
- Easy Pasta Salad by Love and Lemons (just add protein such as meat, seafood or legumes)
- Healthy Creamy Pasta Salad (add salmon, tuna, chicken or another protein)
- The Best Easy Pasta Salad by Pinch of Yum (again, add protein!)
- Greek Pasta Salad by Foodie Crush (You guessed it…toss in some protein!)
Smoked salmon
Smoked salmon (or smoked trout, if you prefer) is a great item to keep on hand in the summer because it offers great taste, protein, nutrients and convenience. Serve it on a bagel with cream cheese, with eggs, on toast with avocado and arugula, or as part of a ‘snack plate’—smoked salmon with bite-sized pieces of cheese, fruit, vegetables, nuts, pickles, whole grain crackers and other favourites. This latter option is ideal for seniors who prefer to graze rather than enjoy a large meal. Don’t forget to include a large glass of water or another low sugar fluid! Also, it’s important to note that smoked fish can be high in sodium, making it more of a ‘treat’ than an everyday meal for seniors.
Thanks for reading—please visit our website or contact us to learn more about hiring a Personal Support Worker (PSW) to assist your aging loved ones in Toronto, Mississauga or other parts of the GTA. We’d be glad to answer your questions, offer a free care consultation and provide a quote for homecare services.