By Ewa Frydel, Owner

Ensuring that elderly people get enough protein is essential for preserving muscle mass, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health.

There are ways you and your caregiver can make sure your elderly loved one is getting enough for their daily needs.

Why is Protein Essential for the Elderly?

Protein plays a vital role in maintaining muscle mass, which is crucial for mobility and independence. Additionally, protein supports the immune system, helping to fight off infections and illnesses. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at processing protein, making it even more important to consume adequate amounts.

It’s not just for body-builders at various ages, it’s integral for getting older.

Recommended Protein Intake for the Elderly

According to the Administration for Community Living, elderly individuals should aim to consume about 1.0 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. This means a 70-kilogram (154-pound) person should consume approximately 70 to 84 grams of protein each day.

Challenges in Meeting Protein Needs

Decreased Appetite: Many elderly people experience a reduced appetite, which can make it challenging to consume enough protein.

Dental Issues: Problems with teeth or dentures can make chewing protein-rich foods difficult.

Digestive Changes: Aging can affect the digestive system, making it harder to absorb and utilize protein efficiently.

Tips for Increasing Protein Intake

Include Protein in Every Meal: Incorporate a source of protein in every meal and snack. Options include eggs, lean meats, fish, dairy products, beans, and legumes.

Use Protein Supplements: Protein shakes and powders can be a convenient way to increase protein intake, especially for those with decreased appetite or chewing difficulties.

Soft Protein-Rich Foods: For those with dental issues, focus on softer protein-rich foods such as yogurt, cottage cheese, scrambled eggs, and tofu.

Enhance the Flavor: Make protein-rich foods more appealing by adding herbs, spices, and sauces that are low in sodium and sugar.

Plan Protein-Packed Snacks: Keep protein-rich snacks like cheese sticks, Greek yogurt, nuts, and hard-boiled eggs readily available.

Consult a Dietitian: A registered dietitian can provide personalized advice and meal plans to ensure adequate protein intake.

Sample High-Protein Meal Plan for the Elderly

Breakfast: Greek yogurt with honey and berries, a boiled egg, and a slice of whole-grain toast.

Lunch: Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

Snack: Cottage cheese with pineapple chunks.

Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli.

Evening Snack: A protein smoothie made with milk, a banana, and a scoop of protein powder.

If your elderly is a vegan or vegetarian, there are plenty of healthy and minimally processed proteins out there, such as tofu, seitan, tempeh, legumes, and flours like pastas and bread.

By incorporating protein into every meal, addressing challenges, and using supplements when necessary, you can help your elderly loved ones maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to create dietary plans to individual needs.

For meal planning assistance, contact us to get in touch with a caregiver. You can see all other services we offer that coincide with nutrition care.

Our caregivers assist the elderly at home by helping with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and consult with healthcare professionals to get a proper nutrition plan for your elderly’s dietary needs.

We’re here to help!

Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about helping your elderly get in enough protein to support their aging process and health and is not intended and should not be construed as medical or legal advice.