Posts by Kat Starr

Good nutrition is key to healthy aging. However, many older adults live with a variety of conditions—including dementia, arthritis or tremors—that can impact their ability to feed themselves using utensils. If a loved one has trouble with utensils for any reason, you often can turn any food into finger food simply by cutting it into smaller pieces.  Check out these ideas for nutritious snacks and meal substitutes that can be eaten without utensils. Some seniors may prefer…

Eating well-balanced meals with lots of colorful fruits and veggies, whole grains and a limited amount of sugar, sodium and saturated fat is essential for healthy aging and may also reduce one’s risk of developing dementia. But what if you don’t have access to a full-service grocery store? Many Hoosiers today are buying their food…

Eating fruits and vegetables is important for healthy aging and may help you live independently for longer. A high-quality diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables may also reduce one’s risk of dementia. Fortunately, eating fruits and vegetables does not have to be expensive. Buying canned, frozen, on sale, or in-season produce are all ways…

More than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, and by 2050 this number is expected to increase to 14 million. Fortunately, research has identified several lifestyle factors that correlate with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. In one study from the National Institute on Aging, people who…

Many traditions revolve around food, especially during the holidays. This holiday season, if you are looking for easy, inexpensive gift ideas for seniors, gifts that promote better nutrition can be fun and affordable. Consider pairing one of these useful kitchen items with one of the recipes found below, or pair with a favorite family recipe.…

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is essential for healthy aging. Eating at least five servings daily—three of vegetables and two of fruit—has been linked to lowering the risk of chronic disease, as well as Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. As the seasons change, however, you may notice the price of your favorite produce changing…

Exercise has many physical and cognitive benefits. Physical activity can improve sleep, mood and balance, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Exercise also may reduce the risk of developing dementia. Even though the pandemic means many of us are spending more time at home, we can stay…

Did you know that as we age, our sense of thirst decreases? This means that, even though we still need to consume fluids regularly, we may not feel thirsty. Dehydration can exacerbate the negative effects of chronic conditions and even lead to hospitalization. So, don’t wait until you feel thirsty to consume fluids! Sometimes thirst…

We all know about the vast amount of evidence showing the importance of fruits and vegetables for physical and cognitive health, but most Hoosiers struggle with getting enough fruits and vegetables in their diet.  Luckily, supporting local farmers markets is a win-win. Farmers markets are a great way to buy fresh, locally grown produce and…