Following a vegetarian diet can lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other health issues. Many of the meals listed below can be prepared ahead of time and warmed up throughout the week, making healthy eating easier for older adults.
1. Tofu Omelets & Toast
Eating tofu omelets and toast for breakfast can help seniors burn calories and lower their risk of cardiovascular disease. Tofu contains the amino acids older adults need. Your loved one can add peanut butter to whole wheat toast or prepare toast with refried beans and avocado. Tofu omelets are packed with protein, iron, and potassium.
Older adults may need help preparing nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Edmonton seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.
2. Meatless Meatloaf & Mashed Cauliflower
Your loved one can prepare a tasty meatless meatloaf using vegetarian burger crumbles and various vegetables. The meatloaf is free of high-cholesterol animal meat and contains zero saturated fat. Cauliflower is a healthy substitute for mashed potatoes, and it can fight against inflammation. Eating meatless meatloaf and mashed cauliflower can help seniors reduce their risk of developing brain disorders and heart disease.
3. Seven-Vegetable Couscous
This flavourful and filling meal is a stew featuring rice and vegetables such as carrots, raisins, chickpeas, zucchini, squash, and turnips. The stew can help your loved one maintain eye health and control diabetes. The foods used in seven-vegetable couscous, like zucchini, can boost digestive health, fight against free radicals in the brain, and lower the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Veggie Club Sandwich
If your loved one wants a quick fresh meal, a veggie club sandwich is the perfect choice. The sandwich can be prepared using Greek yogurt, avocado, whole wheat bread, and other ingredients that boost cognitive abilities. Instead of traditional fries or potato chips as a side dish, encourage your loved one to eat sweet potato fries to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The veggie club sandwich is also a good source of fiber, manganese, and vitamins B and C.
5. Black Bean Tacos
Add some variety to your loved one’s meals by cooking black bean tacos, which are a mixture of cabbage, avocados, black beans, onions, olive oil, and healthy spices. Eating black bean tacos helps seniors lower their cholesterol levels and boost their heart health. The tacos have a good balance of the fiber, potassium, vitamin B, and omega-3 fatty acids seniors need to remain in good health.
Hiring a caregiver is a good option if your loved one needs help preparing nutritious meals. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care service. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
6. Vegetarian Lasagna
Many seniors love lasagna, but this dish is often full of carbohydrates and unhealthy fats that have a negative impact on health. However, vegetarian lasagna is a healthy option to consider. Vegetarian lasagna provides a good source of minerals and vitamins in addition to an ideal balance of fat, calories, protein, and carbohydrates.
Switching to a vegetarian diet is just one of the many ways older adults can boost their health and wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Edmonton, AB, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you need professional home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (780) 490-7337.