Maintain Good Nutrition to Avoid or Mitigate the Risk of Chronic Diseases
The government first published nutritional recommendations in 1941, which became known as the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDAs). At the time, recommendations were more concerned with ensuring the population “as a whole was adequately fed and free from scurvy, rickets and other wartime diseases of malnutrition.” These early guidelines did not address long-term issues such as heart disease and diabetes.
Since then, we have learned we need to focus on maintaining good nutritional habits well into our senior years to avoid or mitigate our risk for chronic diseases. One example is type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body’s muscle, fat and liver cells stop responding well to insulin resulting in consistently high blood sugar. Doctors say type 2 diabetes can be caused by too much sugar and refined-carbohydrates in our diet, and to lessen our risk, we should maintain a healthy weight and minimize blood-sugar spikes as well as add more fiber to our diet.
Another thing an older adult should be aware of is muscle loss. Along with resistance training, weightlifting, Pilates, and yoga, nutritionists say to maintain strength we need to include protein in our diet. Christine Ritchie, director of research for the division of palliative care and geriatric medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, says older adults’ diet should include more protein than when they were younger. A man in his 50s needs “about 25 to 30 grams at each meal (like a medium chicken breast or burger, a 5-ounce can of tuna mixed with mayo, 2 cups of cooked rice and beans, or a cup of low-fat cottage cheese).”
Government dietary guidelines report that we burn approximately 200 fewer daily calories after age 50, so if you keep eating like you did in your thirties or forties, you will probably gain weight. Also, as bone loss starts sometime in our early thirties and continues into old age, seniors should consume foods with calcium and vitamin D. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends 1,200 milligrams a day of calcium for women and 1,000 mg for men. Additionally, eat fruits and vegetables in a bright range of colors for heart-protecting antioxidants.
At MorningStar of Mission Viejo, we recognize that good nutrition is especially important to the wellbeing of seniors. Our meals will be prepared largely from scratch and feature the freshest ingredients from high-quality producers, locally sourced when possible. Opening in May 2023, our beautiful home will offer 105 stylish suites for independent living and assisted living. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood will have 30 suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please visit our website for more information about retirement communities.
MorningStar of Mission Viejo represents the very best in independent living, assisted living and memory care. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide carefree retirement years with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Visit our website to learn more about our new community in Mission Viejo, CA.
Source: aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2020/nutrition-after-age-50.html
Introducing the New MorningStar of Mission Viejo
While MorningStar may be new to the Mission Viejo area, MorningStar Senior Living has been serving seniors for 18 years. We have 40+ communities throughout the Western U.S. including MorningStar of Pasadena, Casa Sandoval in Hayward and MorningStar of San Jose. We are proud of the reputation our homes have earned with residents and their families alike and would like to introduce you to the new MorningStar of Mission Viejo, due to open in the second quarter of 2023.
MorningStar communities are trusted for their excellence–and for authenticity–in why we serve and how we serve. Our dedicated team understands the highest expression of living is when we are fully engaged in sharing our time and talents in service to others; and recognize the professional and personal satisfaction this calling brings.
Our company was started in 2003 by Ken Jaeger, Founder/CEO, who wished to “cast a new light” on senior living by creating senior housing that felt like his grandmother’s house –true homes filled with light, love and compassion. To accomplish this, we are inspired and empowered by our mission to:
Honor God in our business practices and relationships
Value all seniors as gifted and contributing individuals
Invest generously in our team’s ability to serve well
MorningStar of Mission Viejo will offer independent living and assisted living suites with an array of luxury amenities, hospitality and care services, and wellness programs and activities. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, our Reflections Neighborhood will provide experienced, compassionate care for our most tender residents.
We are conveniently located on Marguerite Parkway near The Shops of Mission Viejo and Providence Mission Hospital for medical services. There are beaches and parks nearby, as well as Viejo Country Club, Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club and Niguel Botanical Preserve. Visit our website to learn more about our new community as well as our commitment to serving seniors, the local community, and to others across the globe. Reserve your select suite today and ask about our “Founders Club Specials.”
MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and retirement communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for exceptional senior living in Mission Viejo, we encourage you to consider MorningStar.