Thanksgiving Dish Ideas for Seniors

Diet is going to be a crucial focus no matter what time of year it is, for seniors. Your loved one may have diet restrictions either for weight management or chronic conditions, but that does not mean they should have to skip out on Thanksgiving dinner. It just means you need to be conscientious of the menu. If a senior is aging in place alone, senior home care can help them come up with a small Thanksgiving meal to have during the week that caters to their diet needs. Here are some favorite dishes and alternative recipes to do instead, which can help your loved one enjoy the day but maintain their needed diet.

Roasted Turkey or Chicken

Turkey is a traditional meal for Thanksgiving and luckily it is one of the healthier options for seniors. If they do not like turkey or they are living on their own they can opt for a smaller bird like chicken. These are both birds that senior home care can help prepare in advance at the beginning of the week to enjoy on Thanksgiving. These are the best lean sources of protein filled with vitamin B, low carb, and easier to digest than other types of meat. This can easily be baked in the oven and smaller birds won’t take very long to roast.

Mashed Cauliflower

Because potatoes are high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar increases, especially for individuals with diabetes or insulin resistance, they might not be the best option for seniors. However, mashed potatoes are a staple in Thanksgiving meals, so if you are looking for a replacement, try mashed cauliflower. This is a vegetable that is lower in carbs and calories making it the perfect side for those who are looking to eat low carb and maintain a healthy weight. Mashed cauliflower is also a great choice for seniors who are trying to manage their blood sugar and digestive health. Cauliflower is healthy and it has a versatile flavor. Whatever herbs you add is what it will taste like so you have so many options to work with.

Herb-Infused Vegetables

Baking carrots, broccoli, yams or brussels sprouts is such a good option for seniors. These are healthy, filling, and full of nutrients that a senior loved one needs to be healthy. Thanksgiving can be one of the healthiest celebrations out there; you just have to think things through. Baking carrots and other vegetables can be done on one pan and herbs have little to no calories making it perfect for your loved one who is focused on health. They will taste good, be easy to make, and your senior loved one can fill up on them.

Green Beans with Turkey Bacon

Green beans are usually another staple in Thanksgiving meals and luckily they are something that can be great for a senior to consume regularly. Many dishes contain bacon which is high in sodium and fta but a good alternative is to use turkey bacon instead. You can do everything the same as any other recipe but use alternative types of bacon instead to lower sodium and fat levels in the dish.

If you or an aging loved one is considering senior home care in Maricopa, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!