What are the Benefits of Senior Living Dining
How many important family discussions, celebrations, or quiet moments with someone you cared about happened around a dinner table? Food doesn't just nourish us physically; it feeds us emotionally and is an important part of enjoying life. That's why we're often asked on tours of our communities about our dining experience...an experience we believe should be good for the mind and body.
Advantages of Senior Living Dining
As you research area senior living communities, here are some benefits of dining to consider that go beyond just what’s on the menu.
A Range of Delicious and Nutritious Meals
Even if your dietary needs have evolved, your menu selections can still be a feast for the senses. Our restaurant-style dining features chef-prepared meals that accommodate your individual needs without sacrificing flavor.
Dinner Companions
Think about the choices you make when dining alone or preparing a meal for one. Do you go for convenience or do you choose something healthy? Sharing a meal with others can help us make better food choices. At our senior living communities, mealtimes are also a time to make social connections with neighbors and even form new friendships.
Flexibility and Convenience
Another perk of senior living dining options is that it’s really just convenient. Our culinary team takes care of everything from planning the menu and sourcing the ingredients to preparing the meals and cleaning up afterwards. Of course, you can still cook in your own residence, but sometimes it’s nice to have a worry-free option.
Eating Right and Living Well
Dining can also be an important part of maintaining your overall health and wellness. Lifting your fork can be as beneficial as lifting weights or engaging in other physical activity. Here are some benefits of healthy eating:
Improves Your Mood
Making some positive changes to your lifestyle — like your eating habits — can improve your mood and well-being. Suggestions include:
- Get 15-30 minutes of regular exercise daily.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Choose fewer foods with processed sugars and more whole grains at mealtimes.
- Volunteer, join a club, or take part in other communal activities to keep your mind active and strong.
Strengthens Your Memory
Foods packed with vitamins B-6, B-12, niacin (B-3), and folic acid are known to help reduce the amino acid homocysteine levels in the body. At high levels, homocysteine can damage the lining of arteries, possibly raising the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attacks, blood clots, and strokes. Eating green vegetables, unprocessed cereals, and omega-3 fatty acids also support the fight against memory disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Promotes a Healthy Immune System
A poor diet can lead to many potential health issues, including inflammation. To maintain a strong immune system, eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and foods low in fats.
Reduces the Look of Aging
Foods like tomatoes, berries, avocados, and nuts all contain vitamins and minerals that are good for the skin. For example, citrus fruits or juices are a good source of vitamin C, which helps build collagen and reduce premature signs of aging. Researchers suggest that eating foods high in these types of antioxidants can support healthy skin cells as you age.
Come for a Tour. Stay for Lunch.
If you're ready to learn more about the active and engaging lifestyle at a Providence community for yourself, schedule a personal tour by emailing us at info@provlife.com. We’ll be happy to show you around and even treat you to lunch.
