Snacks for seniors do not have to be bland or boring. Use these nine ideas as a starting point for delicious and nutritious snacking at any age.
1. Fresh Fruit
Fruit is low in calories and loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Some great choices for older adults include berries, clementines, and bananas. Unsweetened applesauce is another excellent way to get the health benefits of fruit.
2. Vegetables
Veggie sticks with a low-calorie dip or peanut butter, steamed vegetables, or even dried vegetable chips make healthy snacks for senior citizens. Choose vegetables of different colors to maximize the nutritional benefits.
3. Eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are simple to make and store well. If you peel them ahead of time, they offer an incredibly convenient way for older adults to get a dose of protein, iron, zinc, and several B vitamins.
4. Smoothies
If you need snacks for a particularly finicky older adult, a fresh smoothie could be just the thing. You can customize the flavor with your choice of fruits, vegetables, spices, and kinds of milk. There are also many different options for smoothie blends in most grocery stores if convenience is more important.
5. Cheese and Crackers
Whole-grain crackers are a healthy snack for seniors. Add a few slices of low-fat cheese, and you are well on your way to transitioning to the MIND diet. This filling and nutritious snack offers protein, whole grains, and calcium.
6. Nuts
Nuts are loaded with protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. They make a great snack for seniors, whole or as nut butter.
7. Dried Turkey Sticks
Turkey sticks are a lower-calorie alternative to beef sticks with comparable amounts of protein. Just be mindful of the sodium and sugar content when shopping for packaged snacks like these.
8. Yogurt
Yogurt is among the most popular snacks for seniors in nursing homes for good reasons. Plain or reduced-sugar versions of yogurt are a great way to get extra calcium and protein. Add fruit, granola, nuts, or a little honey for extra flavor.
9. Oatmeal
Oats are very versatile grains that are loaded with fiber. Straight oatmeal is a great breakfast, but it can also be a healthy and hearty snack. Choose a plain version and add fresh fruit and spices to boost flavor, layer it with yogurt for a parfait, or make overnight oats with protein-packed nut milk.
Tips for Choosing Healthy Snacks for Older Adults
The best healthy snacks for seniors are nutritious and delicious. You should also consider a few other factors when making selections.
Dental issues, such as dentures, missing teeth, and gum disease, can affect the types of foods that older adults choose to eat. Snacks with a soft texture are an excellent option for those with dental issues.
Because appetite decreases with age, older adults need smaller portion sizes. This is one reason nutritious drinks and smoothies make excellent healthy snacks for seniors.
Experience Healthy Eating at Elder Care Alliance
At Elder Care Alliance, we understand the importance of choosing delicious and healthy snacks for seniors. Our communities offer nutritious dining options designed to meet the needs of our residents. Schedule your visit today.
