Focus on nutritional services is important for every age

For many older Texans the checklist for living independently includes sound finances, a support community and quality medical care. Another vital element that is sometimes overlooked is nutrition. Staying healthy by making better food choices can contribute to a long life of living independently.

The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services, through local Area Agencies on Aging, offers nutrition services that include counseling, consultation and education as well as meals at senior centers or delivered to a home.

Services are provided to those 60 year or older who have the greatest economic and social needs. Meals are served at senior centers, adult daycare facilities and multigenerational meal sites.

People with certain health issues may receive meals delivered to their homes.

Another aspect of nutrition services is education and counseling. Learning about nutrition can promote a person's well-being and delay the onset of health conditions that may be the result of poor nutrition or a sedentary lifestyle.

Counseling also is available to help older residents learn more about nutrition, how foods may interact with their medications and their overall health status.

Eating well is always important, but nutritional needs change as people age. Take the time to evaluate personal nutritional needs and see what steps can be taken to improve one's health and well-being.

Those with specific medical conditions or who are starting an exercise program for the first time are encouraged to check with a physician.

Following are some tips to get started.

• Evaluate one's current weight and normal weight to determine the number of calories needed each day. High blood pressure, coronary artery disease and stroke can all be related to one's weight.

• Include vegetables, fruits and whole grain foods in meals and snacks on a daily basis.

• Replacing fluids in the body each day is important. Soup, water, juice and milk are all liquids to be considered when thinking about replacement of fluids.

• Intestinal problems may be avoided by eating more fiber, which can be found in fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains and brown rice. If more fiber is needed in the diet, add it slowly to avoid stomach problems, and drink plenty of liquids.

• Be aware of intake of discretionary calories, such as those in oil, fat and sugar. Shopping for food and keeping costs down can be a concern. Think about the amount of food or ingredients needed and make a list before going to the store.

A larger container of a product may be less expensive at the checkout lane, but the savings may be lost if the amount can't be used by its expiration date.

Plan meals and keep canned or frozen meals on hand for emergencies or days when not cooking.

Using generic brands and freezing leftovers are other commonsense ways to save money.

Simplicity and enjoyment should be a part of a good nutrition lifestyle. Avoid making too many changes at once.

To learn more about nutritional services or to locate an Area Agency on Aging, phone (800) 252-9240 or visit the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services website at www.dads. state.tx.us.