Maintaining good nutrition is vital at every stage of life — but it becomes especially important in our later years. As we age, our bodies go through changes that can affect appetite, digestion, and nutritional needs. For older adults living at home, a balanced diet plays a key role in staying healthy, independent, and enjoying life to the fullest.
Here are our top nutrition tips to support healthy ageing at home.
1. Focus on Nutrient-Rich Foods
Older adults benefit from foods packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre — especially when appetite is smaller.
Fruit & vegetables: Aim for a rainbow — fresh, frozen, or tinned (in juice/water).
Wholegrains: Swap white bread, rice, and pasta for wholemeal versions.
Lean protein: Include poultry, fish, eggs, beans, and lentils to support muscle strength.
2. Support Bone Health
Bone density naturally declines with age, increasing the risk of fractures. Include plenty of:
Calcium-rich foods — dairy, fortified plant milks, leafy greens.
Vitamin D — eggs, oily fish, fortified cereals, or supplements (especially during autumn/winter).
3. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a common issue in older adults and can lead to confusion, UTIs, and low blood pressure.
Encourage 6–8 drinks per day (water, tea, diluted juice, milk).
Offer fluids regularly, even if they don’t feel thirsty.
Include foods with high water content like soups, stews, jelly, or melon.
4. Small Appetites? Try Little & Often
If larger meals feel overwhelming, offer smaller portions more frequently — for example:
Three small meals + two or three nourishing snacks.
High-calorie, nutritious options like yoghurt, cheese, nuts, avocado, or banana.
5. Watch the Sugar & Salt
While treats are fine in moderation, too much salt or sugar can increase health risks:
Choose low-salt versions of sauces, soups, and tinned goods.
Limit sugary snacks in favour of fruit, crackers with cheese, or savoury oatcakes.
6. Consider Supplements (if advised)
Sometimes diet alone isn’t enough. A GP or dietitian may recommend supplements for:
Vitamin D
Calcium
Vitamin B12 (absorption decreases with age)
7. Make Mealtimes Enjoyable
Loneliness can dramatically affect appetite.
Where possible, share meals with family, friends, or carers.
Encourage involvement in meal choices and food preparation.
Keep flavours exciting – use herbs, spices, and colourful plates to tempt the palate.
How CM Bespoke Care Can Help
Our compassionate support workers can assist with:
Grocery shopping and meal planning
Preparing fresh, nutritious meals tailored to health needs
Encouraging hydration and regular eating
Monitoring dietary changes or concerns
At CM Bespoke Care, we know that food isn’t just fuel — it’s comfort, dignity, and joy.
If you’d like help making healthy eating easier at home, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
