diet matters!

The holidays are filled with gatherings... family gatherings, church socials, and for seniors sometimes there are gatherings of social clubs or parties at retirement communities, assisted living facilities or community centers. Party, party, party time! Festive decorations, holiday music, lots of friends and family, and of course FOOD!

There's nothing wrong with celebrating the season with a wonderful meal or special festive snacks! The challenges many seniors face is when those indulgences are too great, and cause other health conditions to worsen. For instance, many seniors struggle with diabetes. It's important that they watch closely their intake of holiday sweets so that they don't spike their blood sugar. Maybe someone can bake special "sugar free" treats using Splenda or Stevia baking products so they can enjoy these special treats without the pressure or risk to their health!

Other seniors simply have challenges with their digestive track. Overdoing it with a holiday meal could spell real trouble for them. It might cause a bowel block, problems with severe bloating or gas or even UTI issues if they aren't drinking enough water during these times. 

Finally, remember that the holidays can be an emotional time for many seniors, especially if they have lost a loved one during that calendar year. Many times a special food dish can not only be beneficial for the diet, but it can feed the soul as well. Take that extra time to make Dad's favorite pie that Mom always made for him every year, and stand back and watch just how much it means to him. Yes, it may be emotional, but there is healing in those types of experiences as well. 

You may find it necessary to enlist some help with cooking and preparing holiday snacks and meals for your senior loved ones. The incredible member agencies of the Oklahoma Professionals for Home Care are here to help! Their amazing staff would love to assist you and your loved ones during this holiday season. Just click on the "About Us" tab at the top of the page, and then click on "Membership Directory" to find one of our qualified member agencies close to you!

Happy holidays to you and all of your loved ones during this most wonderful time of the year!

Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angles of SWOKC

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