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Summer is a season when nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables ripen and are ready for harvest. Pick the freshest foods and serve them to an aging loved one to deliver a boost of nutrition. Seniors enjoy munching on these favorite, healthy summer foods.
The freshest summer foods can be purchased at a local farmer’s market. Vine-ripened tomatoes, newly picked corn, and tantalizing melons are just a few of the delicious pickings that are offered from the stands. Honey and jams are also popular items available at various roadside stands.
Fruits and vegetables that peak in ripeness each summer make it easy for seniors to eat nutritiously. Many summer foods can be roasted over a grill for a smoky flavor or steamed to retain vitamins and minerals. No matter how they are prepared, make the most of these summer foods.
1. Watermelon
This fruit’s name alone exudes hydration. Watermelon is in fact one of the most hydrating summer fruits. Its gorgeous red hue indicates that it is loaded with lycopene, an antioxidant that protects an individual from heart disease as well as certain cancers.
Lycopene is better absorbed by the aging body when it is consumed along with fats. Caregivers might prepare a sweet and savory salad that includes chopped watermelon drizzled with olive oil. Or, for a sumptuous, charred flavor, brush watermelon slices with oil and toss them on the grill.
2. Eggs
Granted, chickens lay eggs all year-round. But eggs can be enjoyed especially during the summer months. Eggs are protein-rich foods containing important vitamins, like A, D, B6 and B12. The yolks hold nutrients, like choline and lutein, that can help prevent age-related eye diseases, like cataracts.
Caregivers might pack deviled eggs prepared with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This lighter version of deviled eggs is an ideal snack for outdoor picnics with the senior. Prepare egg salad in the same way. Either dish will bring back the senior’s memories of outdoor celebrations with family.
3. Iced Tea
Tea doubles as a refreshing summer beverage and one that boosts the senior’s immune system. Whether black, oolong, white, or green, tea is filled with compounds that reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancers. Limit the sugar or serve it unsweetened.
Sip a glass of iced tea with the senior on a summer afternoon. The drink helps cool down the aging body and protects it from UV rays. Tea is also known to improve digestion and metabolism. Since fresh fruits and spices are in season, drop a few in the pitcher.
4. Coleslaw
No savory dish represents summer better than coleslaw. Whether prepared tart or sweet, coleslaw is packed with dietary fiber and vitamins C and K. Cabbage delivers additional nutritional benefits, such as helping to reduce inflammation in the body and providing cancer-fighting antioxidants.
While cabbage is the primary ingredient in coleslaw, numerous vegetables can be added for an even greater vitamin-packed punch. Add shredded carrots, broccoli stalks, bell peppers, or radishes. When seniors favor a creamy yet healthy version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise.
5. Dip
Dips prepared in any of numerous ways can turn a boring chip into a party for the tastebuds. Salsa made with tomatoes, peppers, and onions is filled with antioxidants, including lycopene. Guacamole prepared with avocados is also nutritious, as it is filled with healthy fats, iron, potassium, and vitamin E.
Elderly individuals might reach for the bowl of hummus. Also loaded with healthy ingredients, like chickpeas, this dip is high in protein, dietary fiber, and folate. Seniors can dunk veggie sticks into any of these healthy dips to meet the recommended dietary intake of vegetables.
6. Frozen Desserts
Nothing beats the summer heat and tempts the taste buds as much as frozen treats. Popsicles and ice cream cones made with real ice cream can be enjoyed sparingly. Ice cream offers calcium and phosphorous, which are necessary to maintain strong bones.
Dairy desserts are not the only options for older adults. Some prefer fruit-based treats, such as frozen fruit bars. Caregivers can easily prepare them at home using fruits, juices, and Greek yogurt. The key to enjoying these treats is to keep the portion sizes sensible.
Yogurt parfaits may not be frozen, but they are a treat seniors reach for when afternoons are hot, and a cool dessert is needed. Layer yogurt in a small cup with seasonal fruits and nuts. Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, while fruit offers a filling dose of fiber.
Summertime eating is not only healthy but enjoyable. The tender vegetables, sweet fruits, and limitless dairy options take the heat out of the hottest months of the year. When your aging loved one struggles to prepare healthy dishes this summer, count on Assisting Hands Home Care.
Our home care agency is highly regarded by seniors in the community. Professional caregivers fulfill the non-medical home health care needs of care recipients. Elder care services allow seniors to age in place and experience greater comfort, independence, and security at home.
Responsibilities our compassionate caregivers undertake include light housekeeping, timely medication reminders, and grocery shopping. We’ll shop for summer foods with the senior. Whether they prefer the farmer’s market or grocery store, our caregivers accompany seniors throughout the trip.
Safety is a priority at Assisting Hands Home Care. We inspect the home for fall hazards and remove clutter. Mobility assistance is provided so that the senior can move around the home confidently. We also provide transfer assistance, helping the older adult into or out of a chair or bed.
Included in our home care services are transportation to areas within the community as well as companionship. A friendly caregiver from Assisting Hands Home Care chats or plays games with care recipients, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation.
When you are ready for quality home care, choose Assisting Hands Home Care. Our well-rated home care agency serves seniors living in or around Glen Ellyn, IL | Warrenville, IL | Naperville, IL | Westmont, IL | Woodridge, IL | Lisle, IL | Wheaton, IL and the surrounding areas. Call us at (630) 634-9316 to schedule your free in-home consultation and learn how senior home care can be a benefit in summer or all year.
