Would like input on generic nutrition plan for non-active retirees.

BigLifter10

Just looking for personal input from others who may have had to deal with this topic (or work with the above 65 population) for a basic guideline to ensure proper nutrition. My parents are both retired and have spent their years, so far, being decidedly non-active (regarding physical fitness). I've noticed that they really just kind of snack their way through the day and their doctor's check ups have been 'ok' but they were told to improve their eating habits. There is no dietician at the small clinic they visit and I feel like I should do something for them (at least provide a guideline of sorts). There is just so much to consider, but I'm just looking for a template to work from. I kind of have an idea in my mind, but if there is anyone out there who has done this for their own parents or work with people to do this.....I am open to any helpful hints.

They eat three small 'meals' per day, but most of the time they are splitting some fast food 'meal'. Over the past few years both of them have started to have elevated blood pressure and some slightly raised fasting glucose levels. The doc doesn't seem to care to do anything about it at this point (which includes not discussing nutrition in any depth). I want to do whatever I can to at least help out and try to prevent a health issue due to being sedentary and eating 'junk'.

Appreciate helpful input - thank you!

RodaRose

What one thing are you most worried about?

Sweets1954

I'm not over 65 but I am in my 60s. I can understand you parents eating out a lot, fast food is fast and cheap if not the best nutritionally. I made the decision to cut out the fast food, I do go out to eat but I tend to go to places that offer a little better variety. Do you parents like fruits and vegetables. Perhaps if you encourage them to keep that around to snack on it will help improve their diet. Really, until they decide they want to change their eating habits, nothing you can do or say will change them. They pretty much have to make their own minds up. You can certainly encourage them to make small changes but ultimately it is up to them.

jessicapk

Sounds like they might be at a point where they're really not concerned with nutrition. You didn't say they were obese or anything, just some slightly elevated numbers. Give it a bit and see how they're doing some time from now and discuss it with them. They might have made the decision on their own to give up and enjoy from here on out. I've often wondered if I might reach an age where I felt that way.

BigLifter10

Most concerned: Hard to narrow it down....I think I'm trying to make sure that they eat as well as they can given that they don't cook anymore and want convenience. I don't want to go so far as to start preparing all of their meals too, but I know my dad wants to know more about eating well. It's almost like he needs to learn about nutrition from square one (that's how I'm looking at it). He seemed surprised when I put information out about how certain foods affect how the body functions. I want to know that I'm doing all I can (I ultimately know it's up to them, but I am not sure how that will work). My mom refuses to cook anymore, but I know my dad wants to try to be healthier. Things are taking their toll. For instance, my dad's dad started living on toast and tea when he was the same age - and that led to bad things for him. If possible, I want to prevent that for my parents if I have any power to do so. They seem interested....but need guidance. I know what I would do for myself, but I also want to take into consideration their age bracket and lack of activity.

We looked at one day when I was visiting there (after I asked him to keep track). From what was charted, there was 4200 mg sodium in one day (and he's already on blood pressure meds). I feel like I'm jumping into the middle of the ocean and am not sure which way to swim. I'm thinking about getting them a Ninja (or similar) so they can (at the very least) incorporate healthy smoothies like I currently use. I'm thinking that at least that would give them something nutritious.

Maybe the question I should be asking is - what are some of the top ideas to ensure that they are getting nutrition in spite of eating poorly and lack of exercise?

suewerra

if making their own smoothies from scratch is going to be to difficult try ensure ( the supplement drink) ... My mom is 63 and was doing the same thing... She started drinking ensure and it helped her get her energy back and she is walking and eating a little better. My dads glucose was a little high also, and they make a ensure but not ensure ( sorry don't know the name of it)... its glucose something well it helped my dad who is also 65...

RodaRose

If he is supposed to eat less sodium, he will need to eat a few meals from home even though they are not cooking. Your idea of a Ninja or something similar is good. Show them some good fruit and veggie drinks they can make without your mom having to cook.
Try to get your father to keep tracking. Maybe he we will notice some patterns, evaluate, and decide to make his own changes. Tracking, as you know, can be enlightening.