Optimal nutrition plays a critical role for all individuals, but especially those at later stages in life. Patients above 65 need adequate nutrition education as part of their preventive healthcare and in order to manage the impact of age-related chronic disorders.
The aging process comes with a variety of physiological changes which will invariably increase the risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and so on. Adopting a robust plan of preventive healthcare is critical to minimize the impact of these conditions. This is where the notion of nutrition education comes in.
An optimized diet can promote a more effective immune system, higher levels of energy, boosted cognitive capabilities, and improved overall vitality, among other things. Teaching the patient about nutrition is also a way to empower them to take control of their lives.
To be efficient and reliable, the preventive healthcare plan should be in the hands of the patient. Research shows that even small changes in the individual’s diet can have important positive ramifications for their health over the years.
How the Doctor-Patient Trust Is Critical to Understand the Patient’s Needs
Every individual is unique and has unique nutritional requirements based on their age, physiological profile, overall health state, and numerous other factors. Understanding each patient’s needs and predilections is critical for creating a robust nutritional plan.
This is where the doctor-patient communication comes into play. The provider’s role is to be a good listener to encourage the patient to relax and open up. It’s all about building trust and creating a safe and conducive environment where the patient feels safe and at peace. This will strengthen the physician-patient relationship and foster improved communication, empathy, and collaboration.
Targeted Nutritional Goals
An optimized diet plan is a balanced and varied one that brings together several aliments. These include veggies, fruits, whole grains, valuable protein sources, and healthy fats for a well-rounded nutritional experience. It’s also important to introduce a variety of colors and textures into the meal plan to reduce boredom and stimulate appetite.
Another critical aspect of a well-balanced and optimized nutritional plan is the portion size. Each individual requires a personalized approach, especially older adults who can struggle with nutritional deficiencies, food intolerances, swallowing difficulties, and malnutrition.
Finally, food supplementation is more important for older adults than all other categories of individuals. Vital nutrients like calcium, D3, iron, fiber, and B12 are a must in any well-balanced diet. Especially for individuals with medium-to-severe nutritional deficiencies.
To top it all off, having a robust meal plan divided by days, weeks, and months is almost a requirement. This helps both the professional and the patient keep track of their progress, understand what works and what doesn’t, and implement the necessary changes along the way.
Monitoring the patient’s nutritional progress is essential for achieving the projected dietary goals.
With offices in Miami, Miramar, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and West Palm Beach, Primary Medical Care Center is a leader in full-risk primary care, distinguished by its innovative philosophy and unique physician-led culture that delivers coordinated, world-class primary care to the most vulnerable populations, particularly moderate- to low-income seniors with complicated chronic diseases.