Catholic Charities Program Encourages Proper Nutrition for Seniors During National Nutrition Month

PACE GNO Provides Comprehensive Health Services for Older Adults

NEW ORLEANS — As part of the aging process, people often experience loss of appetite, lack of taste and smell, and decreased socialization. All of these factors, along with chronic conditions and certain medications, can affect their nutritional health.

At the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly in the Greater New Orleans Area (PACE GNO), nutritionists and other staff work with clients to monitor their nutrition habits and keep them as healthy as possible. In observance of National Nutrition Month in March, PACE—a ministry of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans (CCANO)—turns attention to helping clients develop healthy eating habits.

Heidi Gereighty, LDN, RD, says a number of general dietary choices help people maintain good nutritional health as they age, These include:

•    Adequate fiber—whole grains, oatmeal, brown rice;

•    Zinc and vitamins B and D levels—eat green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale, along with carrots, broccoli and peas

•    Brightly colored fruits—blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples

•    Added supplements—people over 50 often need Vitamin D supplements;

•    Reduced red meat consumption—less beef and more chicken, fish or seafood;

•    Variety of proteins—eggs, lean meats, nuts, beans or soy products;

•    Hydration—to maintain digestive and overall health, drink plenty of water; 2% milk, juice, tea or coffee can help with hydration but avoid soft drinks.

A person's nutritional health can also be impacted by a decline in their cognitive health, particularly if they are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's disease. 

"As we age, we may be eating less and losing weight because we simply forget to eat," explains Gereighty. "There could also be dental issues that cause them pain when they eat. If so, they may need to visit a dentist or add softer foods to their diets."

Gereighty and the PACE team carefully watch for signs of grief, depression and anxiety that affect nutrition habits. The loss of a spouse or being isolated from friends during the pandemic can affect diets.

"Eating is a very social habit, particularly here in New Orleans. That's why we like to see our PACE clients in the day center dining and socializing with others," she adds.

Set aside leftovers in meal-size containers—if the older person still enjoys cooking at home, encourage them to prepare larger servings and refrigerate or freeze leftovers; don't forget to take gumbo or other home cooked items to your parents, grandparents or other elderly relatives.

She encourages family members and friends to monitor their older loved one's dietary habits but without being obtrusive and judgmental. They can pack individual meals servings for their parents or grandparents, offer to take them grocery shopping and include them in plans for dining out.

At PACE—which operates day centers in New Orleans and on the West Bank in Marrero—a team of healthcare professionals work together to treat the whole person and to customize plans for each individual. Sometimes, that may mean overlooking certain guidelines.

"I have one 90-year-old woman who loves her root beer. At this point, I'm not going to take it away from her. I don't think one soda a day will hurt her," she adds laughingly.

Anyone interested in more information about the PACE GNO program and eligibility requirements can call 504-835-0006 and visit https://www.ccano.org/pace/.