As we get older, we are more at risk of nutritional deficiencies. But there are supplements we can take to get the nutrients our body needs. Do you have a senior loved one in the family? If so, you should know that as they age, organs start to slow down which makes it harder to absorb nutrients from the food consumed. Furthermore, a lot of seniors have restricted diets because of health conditions, dental issues which affect ability to chew food properly, and digestion issues which can result in a loss of appetite. Here at Trinity Care Adult Day Care Center in Morrow Georgia, we think that adding supplements to your senior’s diet can help in dealing with a variety of health challenges.
However, before you let your loved one start a supplemental plan, consult a physician first to determine the most important supplements and benefits of utilization. When safe to take, the following are the most important supplements your senior loved one should take.
Calcium
With age, calcium is no longer stored in bones as effectively as before which puts your loved one at risk for osteoporosis. Supplementing with calcium can be a great way to make sure their body gets what it needs.
Iron
This mineral maintains the health of the red blood cells and without enough of this can result in anemia. Older bodies tend to absorb less iron from the food eaten. Also, when blood is lost, like from surgery, bleeding due to ulcers or an injury, iron deficiencies can be experienced. Our Nursing staff at Trinity Care can provide seniors iron supplements as order by a physician to ensure adequate levels are being maintained.
Vitamin D
This vitamin is essential since it helps the body in absorbing calcium that helps in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D has been found to fight osteoporosis, type-2 diabetes, depression, multiple sclerosis and even cancer. With aging, the body starts to lose its ability to absorb vitamin D. Also, lactose intolerance, anti-cholesterol medications and laxatives can impact the ability of a person to absorb vitamin D. At Trinity Care Adult Day Care Center in Morrow Georgia we recommend and encourage vitamin supplementation for older adults.
Vitamin B12
Body cells need this vitamin. An aging body usually does not absorb enough amount of B12 it needs. B12 maintains the central nervous system, red blood cell production and metabolism regulation. People with Vitamin B12 deficiencies experience fatigue, anemia, weakness, loss of appetite and constipation. Our seniors at Trinity Care are given enough of this vitamin through proper diet and supplementation. Trinity Care Adult Day Care Center in Morrow Georgia works to ensure optimum wellbeing and health for our senior clients.
To make sure that your senior’s nutrition is well maintained, contact Trinity Care now at 770-703-6721.