It seems as though a new diet debuts every year or so, complete with menus and tips that promise a swift path to a healthier life. But for lonely older adults, few food plans focus on the one ingredient most miss: companionship.
According to the latest Surgeon General advisory, a lack of companionship can increase the risk of premature death due to health issues by more than 60%.
A companion who is involved in the meal process may minimize these risks for loneliness that can lead to poor nutrition, noted Home Instead, Inc., Gerontologist and Caregiver Advocate Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger.
Call it the companionship “diet.” A companionship diet plan is more than a health trend, Eichenberger explained. It’s a mind shift that offers an older adult a partner to help navigate the entire dining experience, from meal planning to enjoying a meal together.
According to Home Instead, Inc. research:
- U.S. older adults who eat most of their meals alone are more than twice as likely to be lonely (42%) than those who eat most of their meals with others (19%).
- Lonely older adults are twice as likely to skip meals because they do not have the desire to eat.
- 60% of lonely older adults in the U.S. (67% in Canada) already are not getting the right amount of at least one element of nutrition.
- Older adults who eat most of their meals without a companion are 42% more likely to have feelings of loneliness.
- Lonely older adults in the U.S. receive 157 fewer servings of fruit and vegetables per year than those who are socially connected.
- Check out the resources below to learn more about the Companionship DietSM.
Articles
Skip section navigation Nutrition TipsMake Older Adults Part of Your Family MealMealtime ChallengesRecipes to Connect Families Nutrition TipsMake Older Adults Part of Your Family MealMealtime ChallengesRecipes to Connect Families
8 Nutrition Tips for Older Adults
When it comes to meeting their nutritional needs, seniors can face tough challenges. These seven tips can help.
6 Ways to Make Older Adults Part of Your Family Meal
A companionship diet is more than just eating together, it’s creating an experience an aging loved one and his or her family caregiver will both enjoy. These six ways could get you started.
Read More >
5 Mealtime Challenges for Seniors
Loneliness and social isolation are among the roadblocks that prevent seniors from getting the nutrition they need. Learn more about these five challenges.
Read More >
4 Recipes to Connect Families
Mealtimes connect aging adults and their families in a special way, whether it’s a romantic dinner for two, a favorite family recipe, a TV night staple or a delectable dessert. Check out these four recipes that could be part of your next family dinner.
Read More >
Compassionate Home Care
Whether you need companionship or help getting around town, Home Instead delivers the compassionate in-home care services your family deserves. Find Home Care
