If you’re responsible for creating your senior loved one’s grocery list or doing the grocery shopping for them, there are certain foods that should always be on your shopping list! Unfortunately, your senior can’t simply eat the same foods they once did when they were 10 or 20 years younger.

As their bodies have aged, getting proper nutrition becomes increasingly important. You also may have noticed that their taste has changed, or maybe certain foods are harder for them to chew or digest. If so, then adding new and different foods will also be helpful.

Below, we’re outlining the foods that you should always pick up for your senior at the grocery store!

Fruits

It’s true what they say – fruit is nature’s candy! Some ideal soft fruits include mango, peaches, bananas, and ripe pears. For more nutrient-dense fruit, stick to berries like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. They provide plenty of antioxidants! 

Vegetables

Unsurprisingly, we suggest getting as many vegetables for seniors as they like! Cooked spinach, steamed broccoli/squash/zucchini, and roasted asparagus are excellent for getting in thee necessary vitamins and nutrients. If they can handle the acidity, tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants! 

Smart Carbs

Smart carbs are also known as complex carbs. Smart carbs tend to be softer, easier to digest, and high in fiber. Your senior should be eating a moderate amount of these carbs. These foods include whole-grain choices in pasta, bread, and oatmeal. 

Healthy Fats

Fat is key to a healthy diet for your senior! But not just any fats… Healthy fats! You can find healthy fats in foods such as olive oil, flax seeds, and avocado. Healthy fats can improve your senior’s skin, nails, and hair, and they can help them gain a little weight if they need to.

Protein 

Last but certainly not least, your senior needs protein! And they need to get enough of it, which is often not the case for many seniors. Look for foods like chicken drumsticks that are tender and quite literally fall of the bone! You can also look to non-animal products like beans and legumes for your senior to intake protein.

Need more advice on grocery shopping for your senior? Feel free to reach out to our experts here at ActiKare and schedule your consultation!