BOOMER TSUNAMI
Age brings nutrition deficit
October 17, 2009
Judy Steed
SPECIAL TO THE STAR
Food is a complex topic at all stages of life, so powerful are the connections between eating, social interaction, family relationships, personal health and pleasure.
But as we age, we may find ourselves eating alone more often and losing interest in food. Many seniors end up malnourished, victims of the "tea and toast" syndrome.
"In terms of nutrition, the biggest problem for people as they get older is they still need lots of nutrients, but fewer calories," says geriatric dietitian Nicole Shuckett, 38.
Metabolisms slow with age – we don't burn as many calories – and our digestive systems slow, too. Seniors will often say, "I've got no appetite, I can't possibly eat seven servings of fruit and vegetables every day."
In response, Shuckett shows them how to do it (see sidebar).
"I've seen everything," she says, of the 12 years she spent working at Baycrest, Toronto's renowned geriatric centre, where she developed (with a colleague) a clinic that deals with swallowing problems – common among older people.
"I apply what I learned at Baycrest in my private practice."
Shuckett has advice to solve common problems elderly people encounter in terms of nutrition.
For constipation, make sure you get lots of fluids and fibre, from fruits and vegetables, every day. Don't become dependent on laxatives; many seniors do, and it only compounds the problem. Half a glass of warm prune juice is the best cure. Or mix bran buds with prunes and apple sauce.
She says to be mindful of the fact that the prescription drugs you're taking may affect the absorption of nutrients and leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Talk to your pharmacist.
Shuckett also advises: Eat fish twice a week. Throw away your salt shaker. Eat smaller bites, chew slowly, take your time, pay attention, don't multi-task.
Develop new social habits. Think of ways to organize meals with friends. Create regular weekly lunch groups. Arrange to meet friends to walk and eat at the mall. At home, eat in a sunny place, put a bouquet of flowers on the table, enjoy your food.
Grocery shopping can be a fun outing if you plan well, she says. "Go with a friend, make a detailed list, take a magnifying glass, have lunch after, and come home in a taxi."
A graduate of the University of Manitoba, Shuckett did her masters degree at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, noted for its strong health sciences programs.
Nowadays, with two young children to care for – and a need for a flexible schedule – Shuckett is a consulting dietitian at nursing homes and at the ALS Clinic at Sunnybrook hospital. She also visits clients in their homes and sees first-hand the food-related problems they're having, problems that are often related to the death of a spouse and feelings of isolation. She then works with them to improve their nutrition.
She helps families, too. If elderly parents can no longer go grocery shopping, she encourages them or their adult children to organize grocery delivery. Or, sign up for Meals on Wheels.
"It's an excellent service," Shuckett says, and elders should not be afraid of needing it. As we age, it's important to be flexible and adjust to changing circumstances.
Shuckett tells her clients that "age is just a number. You can be 90 and feel like you're 60."
She meets lots of elders who are vibrant and youthful, and who "live life to the fullest."
The role of nutrition in healthy aging is crucial. "When you eat well, your immune system functions better and you have improved mental and physical health."
Nicole Shuckett can be reached at nicole@shuckett.org, 416-278-3947. You can reach Judy Steed at steedbooks@yahoo.com.
Toronto Star