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Eating alone can be lonely, but did you know that it can also be bad for your health? As you age, physical limitations can make it more difficult to purchase, prepare, and cook meals. Chewing certain foods can be challenging, and your digestive tract may cause discomfort. All of these problems can contribute to malnutrition, weight loss, and a host of other health issues. Learn more about the dangers of eating alone and how senior home care services can help make mealtime enjoyable again. Risks Associated with Eating Alone Many people who dine alone don't eat as healthy as they would if they were dining with a friend, family member, or partner. As cooking for one doesn't have the same appeal as cooking for another person or a family, you may end up fixing dishes that are fast and convenient, instead of healthy and nutritious. When dining alone, many seniors choose to eat in front of the television, which can be distracting and cause them to be less mindful of their nutritional needs. Malnutrition is caused by a severe lack of nutrients in the body. Dietary restrictions and a limited income can make it a challenge to find healthy foods. Certain health problems, such as dementia, dental issues, or diseases that affect swallowing or the absorption of nutrients, can significantly increase the risk of malnutrition in seniors. Older adults who live alone may also lose interest in eating, or they may fill up on foods that lack the proper nutrients needed for good health. Significant weight loss can also occur when seniors live and dine alone. While a slight loss of appetite or changes in appetite can be a natural part of aging, a sudden or continual decline in weight can indicate a more serious problem. Certain mood disorders, such as depression, can increase the risk of malnutrition and weight loss. Poor nutrition can also produce a slew of other symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness, anemia, and heart and lung problems. How Home Care Services Can Help Many seniors rely on home care services to acquire more delicious, nutrient-packed meals and snacks. Professional in-home or companion care services can be especially helpful for seniors who are not able or willing to shop for, prepare, and cook their own meals, or those who desire companionship during mealtime. Home care personal assistants can help with all aspects of the meal planning process, including clean-up after dining. If you or a loved one lives alone, or if you are concerned about his or her health, then hiring a personal assistant can help ensure that all nutritional needs are met. Go to the grocery store and shop for nutritious foods together, find appetizing recipes that cater to the senior's specific tastes, prepare and cook meals side-by-side, and sit back and enjoy meal socialization. Dining alone can be isolating for many older people, but friendly companionship can help make eating an enjoyable experience again. To learn more about their options for home care, Hackensack, NJ residents should visit http://northeastnj.homewellseniorcare.com/.
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